According to a Pakistani media report, the national government plans to launch ferry services between Karachi and Gujarat or Mumbai.

Further, the government plans to launch such a service between Karachi and Dubai. Pakistani Ports & Shipping Minister Senator Kamran Michael is quoted as saying in the media.

Pakistani government set up a high-level committee to examine the feasibility of such services and the panel may submit its report soon.

Interestingly, Pakistan, according to the Minister, is also keen to strengthen its maritime ties with Sri Lanka and has decided to hand over 10 of its vessels — three oil tankers and seven bulk carriers — to Sri Lanka for operations.

Both the countries may soon ink pact on this shortly, reports indicate. Pakistan faces stiff competition from the ship-breaking industries of India and Bangladesh; as a result, the Gadani demolition yard is virtually languishing. A committee has been formed to suggest ways to face the competition and revive the sector.