Pakistan Achieves Maritime Milestone as First RoRo Vessel Carrying Over 2,000 EVs Berths at Karachi Port
Pakistan has reached a significant milestone in its maritime and logistics sector with the successful arrival of M.V. Grande Shanghai, the country’s first Roll-on/Roll-off (RoRo) vessel transporting more than 2,000 electric vehicles (EVs) to Karachi Port.
Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry announced that the 220-meter RoRo vessel successfully berthed at the Karachi Gateway Terminal Multipurpose Limited (KGTML), operated under the Karachi Port Trust (KPT). He described the achievement as a landmark development that strengthens Pakistan’s port capabilities while supporting the country’s growing role in international maritime trade.
According to the minister, the vessel’s arrival follows his approval last month to facilitate RoRo shipments of electric vehicles during a meeting of the maritime affairs committee. The successful operation reflects Pakistan’s increasing ability to handle specialized cargo using modern port infrastructure that meets international operational standards.
He noted that welcoming the country’s first RoRo shipment of electric vehicles represents an important step toward integrating Pakistan into the expanding global clean mobility and sustainable transport supply chain. As demand for electric vehicles continues to rise worldwide, efficient maritime logistics are becoming increasingly important for international trade.
Explaining the advantages of Roll-on/Roll-off shipping, Junaid Anwar Chaudhry said RoRo vessels are specifically designed to transport wheeled cargo, allowing vehicles to be driven directly on and off the ship instead of being lifted by cranes. This method significantly reduces cargo handling time, enhances operational safety, minimizes the risk of vehicle damage, and improves overall port efficiency.
The successful berthing of M.V. Grande Shanghai also demonstrates the Karachi Port Trust’s continued investment in modernizing port operations and expanding its capacity to handle advanced cargo services through technology-driven logistics solutions.
The minister reaffirmed the government’s commitment to strengthening Pakistan’s maritime sector by supporting initiatives that improve port infrastructure, facilitate international trade, and enhance connectivity with global shipping networks.
The arrival of Pakistan’s first RoRo vessel carrying electric vehicles is expected to further strengthen the country’s maritime logistics capabilities while opening new opportunities for efficient vehicle imports and future specialized cargo operations.
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