GWADAR

• Latitude: 25.1114
• Longitude: 62.343
• West Coast India
• Port in Pakistan

Address: Gwadar Balochistan 91200 Pakistan

Web-site: http://www.gwadarport.gov.pk/

Gwadar Port is a strategic, deep-sea port located in Gwadar, along the southwestern coast of Pakistan's Balochistan province. It is situated on the shores of the Arabian Sea and is a significant part of China's Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), specifically the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). Here's a detailed description and specifications of Gwadar Port:

Location:

• Coordinates: Approximately 25.1264° N latitude and 62.3229° E longitude.
• Accessibility: The port is about 533 kilometers west of Karachi and 120 kilometers from the Iranian border.

Features and Specifications:

Port Infrastructure:

• Deep-Sea Port: Gwadar is a deep-sea port with a maximum depth of around 14.5 meters, allowing it to accommodate large container ships and bulk carriers.
• Berths: The port has multiple berths, including three multipurpose berths (each 200 meters in length) initially, with plans for expansion.
• Port Area: The total area of the port and its associated facilities is substantial, supporting diverse maritime and logistical activities.

Facilities:

• Container Terminals: Equipped to handle containerized cargo with modern cranes and container handling systems.
• Bulk Cargo Handling: Facilities to manage bulk cargo including minerals, coal, and agricultural products.
• Storage: Significant warehousing space and open storage yards for goods.
• Support Infrastructure: Equipped with supporting infrastructure like tugs, pilot boats, and adequate bunkering facilities.

Hinterland Connectivity:

• Road Network: Connected via the Makran Coastal Highway (N-10) and under development road networks that link Gwadar with major Pakistani cities.
• Railway: Plans are underway to extend the railway network to improve connectivity with the national rail grid.
• Air Transportation: Proximity to Gwadar International Airport, which is being upgraded to handle increased passenger and cargo traffic.

Economic and Strategic Importance:

• CPEC Hub: Notably a flagship project under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor, enhancing trade and economic collaboration between China and Pakistan.
• Transshipment Point: Potential to serve as a major transshipment hub due to its strategic location near key international sea lanes.
• Free Zone: Gwadar Port Free Zone is being developed to attract investment, with incentives like tax exemptions, providing a conducive environment for international businesses.

Operational Aspects:

• Management: Operated by China Overseas Port Holding Company (COPHC) under a long-term lease agreement with the Pakistani government.
• Technical Support: Equipped with state-of-the-art maritime technology and systems for efficient port operations.

Environmental and Social Considerations:

• Sustainability: Initiatives in place to ensure environmentally sustainable port operations.
• Development Projects: Investments in local infrastructure development, including schools, hospitals, and residential facilities for the port's workforce and the local population.

Future Prospects:

• Expansion Plans: Ongoing expansion projects aim to increase handling capacity, improve connectivity, and enhance infrastructure with new terminals, docks, and ancillary facilities.

Gwadar Port's development is pivotal for enhancing Pakistan's maritime capabilities and positioning the country as a key player in regional trade and logistics, aligning with global shipping and economic trends.