The Ministry of Maritime Affairs has planned to launch a ferry service to facilitate pilgrims traveling to Iran and Iraq, amid stalled negotiations on the decision to ban land travel for pilgrims during Arbaeen.
According to details, a comprehensive roadmap for this service is expected to be finalized in the coming weeks, as reported by national media on Saturday. Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry emphasized the urgent launch of Pakistan’s first ferry service, stating that reforms in the licensing process and financial support for operators are the need of the hour.
According to the federal government, these reforms are being introduced to make sea travel more affordable, assist pilgrims, and promote maritime connectivity.
In a meeting with Director General Shipping and Ports, Aliya Shahid, the federal minister highlighted the benefits of sea travel and stated that the ferry service can offer a reliable and low-cost travel facility for pilgrims wishing to go to Iran and Iraq.
The Minister for Maritime Affairs said that beyond tourism and business, this service can become a major facility for religious travel and that a safe, affordable, and efficient travel option can be provided to pilgrims.
The federal minister also emphasized the economic benefits of this service, explaining that approximately 700,000 to 1 million Pakistani pilgrims travel to Iran and Iraq annually. If 20% of them use the ferry service in the first three years, it could account for 140,000 to 200,000 passengers annually, which is a significant economic opportunity.
The meeting also noted that consultations with relevant stakeholders, including private operators and regional maritime authorities, are ongoing. Feasibility studies and a regulatory framework are being finalized, and a pilot launch is expected in the coming weeks.
