Karachi: The Port Qasim Authority (PQA) has successfully completed a major maritime operation by safely berthing the LNG carrier S K Resolute despite severe monsoon conditions, demonstrating operational expertise and ensuring the country’s energy security.

According to a PQA statement, the vessel was navigated safely through the port’s 49-kilometre-long challenging navigation channel and berthed without incident, despite adverse weather conditions and rough seas.

The operation was carried out under emergency circumstances after QatarEnergy’s two scheduled LNG cargoes returned due to a Force Majeure declaration linked to regional tensions, raising concerns about a potential energy shortage during the peak summer season.

To address the situation, Pakistan LNG Limited (PLL) secured a spot LNG cargo from a transit vessel. Port Qasim’s operations team then conducted a highly complex and time-sensitive marine operation, pushing the port’s operational and weather limits to bring the vessel safely to the LNG terminal.

The S K Resolute was carrying 171,951 cubic metres of liquefied natural gas (LNG), making it the largest single LNG cargo ever handled at the PGPCL terminal.

With a beam (width) of 47.8 metres, the vessel also became the widest LNG carrier ever berthed at either of Port Qasim’s LNG terminals during the monsoon season, marking another milestone for the port.

According to the Port Qasim Authority, the successful completion of the operation ensured the timely supply of LNG to Pakistan’s gas and power sectors, helping maintain the stability of the national electricity grid and supporting uninterrupted power supply to millions of households and key industrial consumers across the country.

A PQA spokesperson said the achievement reflects the authority’s ability to safeguard Pakistan’s economic and strategic interests by carrying out critical maritime operations efficiently, even under exceptionally challenging weather and operational conditions.