KARACHI: The Karachi Port Trust has decided to convert the iconic Port House as a rest house for visiting dignitaries.
This was stated by Minister for Maritime Affairs Syed Ali Haider Zaidi. He said the decision has was taken as part of the prime minister’s austerity drive and will reduce the recurring maintenance cost. “A new era in KPT has started,” said the minister.
“In pursuance of the Government of Pakistan austerity, the Chairman KPT has decided to convert KPT Port House into visiting Dignitaries House with immediate effect,” said a notification issued by KPT chairman.
In pursuance of PM @ImranKhanPTI austerity drive, KPT is converting the palatial Port House from colonial times, as a rest house for visiting dignitaries, greatly reducing the recurring maintanence cost
A new era in KPT has started! pic.twitter.com/W1hjn2sdQ5— Ali Haider Zaidi (@AliHZaidiPTI) December 11, 2020
The Port House is a large colonial-era building that serves as the headquarters of the KPT. It was inaugurated on 5th January 1916. The building occupies a large area of about 1400 sq. metres and is adjacent to the Imperial Customs House.
A day earlier, Nadir Mumtaz Warraich assumed additional charge of the KPT chairman for a period of three months. Warraich is an officer of civil services of Pakistan belonging to 16th CTP. He served as the additional secretary in the Ministry of Maritime Affairs.
He also served as joint secretary (development) in the Ministry of Industries and Production in 2016 and earlier as deputy secretary (development) in Petroleum Division.
