Pakistan’s ship recycling industry took a significant step forward today with the International Symposium on “Capacity Building for Safe and Environmentally Sound Ship Recycling (SENSREC) in Pakistan” organized by the National Institute of Maritime Affairs (NIMA) in Karachi. The event brought together key stakeholders from various maritime sectors to address critical challenges being faced by the industry given the dictates of the Hong Kong Convention and pave the way for the revival of a sustainable future in ship recycling.
Representatives from the Federal and Balochistan Governments, PSBA, KS&EW, KPT, PMSA, GEMS, Gadani Ship Breaking Labour Union, and NTUF participated in the symposium. Additionally, international experts like Professor Raphael Baumler from the World Maritime University and Mrs. Rabia Razzaque from UN-ILO provided valuable insights and global perspectives.
The symposium highlighted Pakistan’s immense potential to become a leader in the field of sustainable ship recycling. Emphasis was placed on the importance of adhering to international standards and regulations to ensure the safety of workers and the environment. Cdre (Retd) Raheel Masood from NIMA appreciated the support rendered by Norway Embassy for the cause. Norway’s Charge de Affairs, present on the occasion, complimented NIMA’s efforts to improve Pakistan’s ship breaking Industry.
The event concluded with closing remarks from Vice Admiral (Retd) Ahmed Saeed HI(M), President NIMA emphasizing the paramount importance of safety and environmental stewardship in ship recycling practices. Chief Guest Senator Nisar Ahmed Khorho emphasized the need for the revival of this industry and the much-needed concerted efforts of all the stakeholders. He urged stakeholders to collaborate on a comprehensive SENSREC program, making it a realization of the new era for Pakistan’s maritime sector characterized by both economic growth, workers’ safety, and environmental responsibility.
