Islamabad (TDI): In light of the government’s decision to halt land travel for pilgrims heading to Iran during Arbaeen, the annual religious observance marking the chehlum of Imam Husain, the Ministry of Maritime Affairs is exploring the possibility of launching a ferry service to facilitate Zaireen (pilgrims) traveling to Iran and Iraq.
The initiative, still in its planning phase, is expected to gain clarity in the coming weeks as officials work to finalize operational details.
On Friday, Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry stressed the urgent need to roll out Pakistan’s first passenger ferry service. He emphasized that reforms to the licensing system and financial support mechanisms must be prioritized to make sea travel a viable and affordable alternative.
Chairing a meeting with Director General of Ports and Shipping Alia Shahid, the minister pointed out that sea routes could provide a cost-effective, dependable solution for religious travelers, especially given the rising demand during pilgrimage seasons.
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“This isn’t just about tourism or business,” Chaudhry stated. “It’s about giving pilgrims a safer, more economical, and efficient travel option.”
According to government estimates, nearly 700,000 to 1 million Pakistanis undertake pilgrimages to Iran and Iraq annually. If even 20 percent shift to sea travel within the first few years, the service could cater to over 140,000 passengers per year, a significant number with both economic and logistical implications.
The ministry is currently holding discussions with private shipping firms and regional maritime regulators. Feasibility assessments are underway, and a trial run of the ferry service may be launched soon.
“If executed properly, this could evolve into a vital regional transport corridor,” the minister noted.
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He further directed authorities to digitize the ferry licensing process and integrate it with the Pakistan Single Window system, much like the country’s ship registration procedures. He also instructed that the current six-month approval timeline be cut down to just one month.
“There’s no excuse for bureaucratic delays,” he asserted. “We must move swiftly.”
In an effort to attract private investment, the ministry is considering flexible funding models for ferry operators. A hybrid model backed by bank and insurance guarantees is being explored to reduce financial barriers for stakeholders.
Farkhund Yousafzai is an Associate Editor at The Diplomatic Insight.
