400 war-hit ships eyed for recycling
Pakistan Aims to Transform Gadani into Green Shipbreaking Hub
Pakistan is set to receive nearly 400 ships from Russia and Ukraine for dismantling at the Gadani shipbreaking yard, as part of a strategic initiative to establish the facility as a center for sustainable recycling. The government is aligning its shipbreaking industry with the Hong Kong Convention (HKC), which mandates safe recycling practices to minimize environmental harm. This move comes in response to the abandonment of vessels due to the ongoing conflict in Eastern Europe.
Gadani Shipbreaking Yard’s Major Overhaul
The Gadani shipbreaking yard, located along a 10-kilometer stretch of coastline, is undergoing significant upgrades to meet international standards. With around 135 designated plots, the yard is preparing to accommodate a share of the 400 vessels currently used for fuel transport that are expected to be decommissioned due to the war. Eleven yards are nearing completion for eco-friendly operations, and an additional 20 are projected to begin green recycling by June 2026.
A federal project worth Rs12 billion has been approved to enhance Gadani’s facilities. This includes the establishment of a hazardous waste treatment plant, a one-window facilitation center, and improved emergency services. These upgrades aim to support safe and sustainable recycling operations, ensuring that toxic materials are handled properly. The HKC, which becomes legally binding on June 26, 2025, requires all ships over 500 gross tonnage to possess an International Certificate on Inventory of Hazardous Materials (IHM) before recycling, further emphasizing the need for responsible practices in shipbreaking.
Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry has reiterated the government’s commitment to aligning the shipbreaking industry with HKC standards. He highlighted the importance of addressing climate change through eco-friendly recycling methods and instructed the Ports and Shipping administration to issue the first green yard certificate for HKC compliance within a week. This initiative not only aims to protect the environment but also to create sustainable economic opportunities in the region.
Commitment to Sustainable Practices
Pakistan’s efforts to transform Gadani into a global model for climate-conscious ship dismantling are gaining momentum. A multi-stakeholder committee, led by the Maritime Ministry’s Technical Advisor Jawad Akhtar, has been established to identify infrastructure gaps and prioritize eco-friendly developments at the yard. The federal government is also directing the creation of a National Center of Excellence for Green Ports, Shipping, and Integrated Maritime Industries in Karachi. This center will focus on promoting research, training, and innovation in green maritime practices.
As the world moves towards stricter environmental regulations, Pakistan is positioning itself as a leader in responsible ship recycling. By adhering to the HKC and implementing sustainable practices, Gadani can contribute to global decarbonization goals while providing sustainable livelihoods for its workforce. This initiative not only addresses the immediate needs of ship dismantling but also aligns with broader efforts to combat climate change and promote a circular economy.
