Junaid Seeks Stronger Port-City Link, Community Healthcare
ISLAMABAD, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 30th Aug, 2026)
Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry said ports must contribute to the development of port cities through jobs, tax revenues, logistics, industrial activity, and waterfront regeneration.
"Ports and cities have historically been closely linked, and there is a need to strengthen this relationship," he added, noting that while economic benefits often extend beyond port regions, environmental and social impacts are frequently concentrated in port cities.
He emphasized the need to restore ports' role as drivers of urban economic growth and providers of healthcare to surrounding communities.
Following the federal minister's vision, the Karachi Port Trust (KPT) held its 35th free medical camp at Bhit Island, offering healthcare services to 513 residents as part of its initiative to enhance access to medical care in coastal communities.
Chaudhry stated that the medical camp reflected the government's broader vision of ensuring that communities living around port and coastal areas benefit from development activities.
The KPT medical team examined 513 patients, provided free medicines, and conducted laboratory services. The beneficiaries included 202 men, 201 women, and 110 children. Approximately 70 laboratory tests were also performed.
A dedicated screening drive for hepatitis B and C was organized to facilitate early detection of these preventable diseases, particularly in underserved island communities.
Skin-related ailments accounted for about 70 percent of the cases reported at the camp, while respiratory and gastrointestinal complaints were also noted. Some patients suffered from chronic conditions, including hypertension and diabetes.
A KPT speech therapist also conducted an awareness session for mothers on early detection, prevention, and treatment of developmental delays and neurological disorders among children, emphasizing the importance of speech therapy and early intervention.
Chaudhry urged the KPT to continue such initiatives to bring essential healthcare services closer to communities, especially those living on islands and in underserved coastal areas.