Port Qasim Authority (PQA) has achieved a historic milestone by safely handling the largest LNG cargo ever discharged in Pakistan on the Q‑Flex LNG carrier MV Al Kharaitiyat.

The vessel entered the Port Qasim channel early morning and was secured by 1000 hours at Engro Elengy Terminal (EETL). This marked the deepest and fullest Q‑Flex operation ever at PQA, with a draft of 12.10 m and cargo volume of 210,250 m³ / 92,510 MT LNG. The vessel carried two LNG parcels, discharged sequentially to maximize throughput efficiency and maintain safety margins.

Port Qasim’s navigation channel, stretching approximately 49 km from the Arabian Sea to the berths, is one of the longest LNG channels in the world. Its dynamics demand precise tidal windows and draft management, making this successful berthing particularly significant as the monsoon season sets in, when operational limitations become stricter.

While LNG handling is a flagship achievement, PQA continues to serve as the nation’s gateway for all cargoes and trade terminals including containerized cargo, dry bulk, liquid bulk, coal, rice, cement, steel, and petroleum products. With modernized systems, digitalization, and round‑the‑clock operations, PQA ensures seamless throughput for vessels across its specialized terminals, reinforcing Pakistan’s trade resilience and competitiveness.

This milestone was achieved through the united efforts of all stakeholders: Qatar Energy as loading operator, Nakilat as vessel owner, EETL as receiving terminal, Pakistan State Oil (PSO) ensuring supply chain integration, and PQA’s Marine Operations team, whose skill and professionalism in tide and draft planning in close collaboration with Qatar Energy and Nakilat ensured flawless execution.

Operational oversight was provided by Chairman PQA Rear Admiral (R) Moazzam Ilyas HI(M), DG Operations Muhammad Khalid HI(M), PN, and Deputy Conservator/ Director Marine Operations Capt. Syed Muhammad Irfan, with Harbour Pilots Capt. Muhammad Jamil and Capt. Muhammad Aamir Riaz executing the navigation.