Karachi: Port Qasim Authority (PQA) has successfully completed a complex maritime operation by safely berthing the LNG carrier S K Resolute despite severe monsoon conditions and challenging weather, ensuring uninterrupted energy supplies for Pakistan during the peak summer season.
According to a statement issued by the Port Qasim Authority, the vessel was navigated safely through the port’s 49-kilometre-long navigation channel, demonstrating exceptional professional expertise, operational capability, and commitment to safeguarding the country’s strategic interests.
The operation was carried out under emergency circumstances after regional tensions disrupted scheduled LNG deliveries. Two LNG cargo vessels chartered by QatarEnergy reportedly returned without completing their voyages following the declaration of Force Majeure, raising concerns about a possible fuel shortage and electricity crisis during the high-demand summer months.
To address the situation, Pakistan LNG Limited (PLL) arranged an alternative spot LNG cargo aboard the transit vessel S K Resolute. The successful arrival of the vessel was considered crucial to maintaining the country’s natural gas supply and preventing potential power shortages.
Port officials said the operation required precise coordination because the vessel had to navigate one of the country’s most difficult maritime channels during adverse weather. Heavy monsoon winds, rough sea conditions, and limited operational margins made the task particularly challenging.
Despite these obstacles, the Port Qasim operations team managed to bring the LNG carrier safely to the terminal without incident. The authority described the mission as one of the most technically demanding maritime operations undertaken at the port in recent years.
The S K Resolute was carrying approximately 171,951 cubic metres of liquefied natural gas (LNG), making it the largest single LNG cargo ever handled at the PGPCL terminal.
In addition to carrying a record cargo volume, the vessel also measured 47.8 metres in beam (width), making it the widest LNG carrier ever berthed at either of Port Qasim’s LNG terminals during the monsoon season.
Officials noted that accommodating such a large vessel required careful planning, advanced navigation techniques, and continuous monitoring throughout the berthing process to ensure the safety of the ship, port infrastructure, and personnel.
The Port Qasim Authority said the successful operation played a vital role in protecting Pakistan’s national energy security. By ensuring the timely unloading of LNG, the operation helped stabilize supplies to the country’s gas and electricity sectors at a time when energy demand remains high due to elevated summer temperatures.
The imported LNG will be used to support power generation, helping maintain the stability of the national electricity grid and ensuring uninterrupted electricity supply to millions of households as well as key industrial consumers across the country.
Energy experts have frequently emphasized the importance of maintaining reliable LNG imports, particularly during periods of increased electricity consumption. Pakistan relies significantly on imported LNG to supplement domestic gas production and meet demand from power plants, industries, and residential consumers.
The successful handling of the emergency cargo also highlights the strategic role played by Port Qasim in Pakistan’s energy infrastructure. As one of the country’s principal maritime gateways, the port handles a substantial portion of Pakistan’s LNG imports, making its operational efficiency critical for national energy security.
According to the authority, the operation showcased the professionalism and preparedness of its marine pilots, port management, tug operators, and technical teams, all of whom worked in close coordination under difficult weather conditions to ensure the mission’s success.
The spokesperson added that the achievement demonstrates Port Qasim Authority’s capability to conduct highly complex marine operations even under adverse environmental conditions and during regional uncertainties.
The authority further stated that its ability to maintain uninterrupted port operations during emergencies reflects Pakistan’s growing maritime competence and institutional readiness to protect vital economic and strategic interests.
Officials expressed confidence that the successful completion of this operation would strengthen confidence among international shipping companies and energy partners in Port Qasim’s operational standards and reliability.
The Port Qasim Authority reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining safe, efficient, and uninterrupted port services while continuing to support Pakistan’s energy needs and broader economic stability under all circumstances.
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