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The federal government has announced plans to develop Ziarat Hasan Shah Island near Karachi into a modern destination focused on eco-tourism, sports tourism, and leisure activities, as part of efforts to expand Pakistan’s coastal and maritime economy.
Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry said the project has been marked as a priority investment and is estimated to cost Rs1 to Rs1.5 billion, equivalent to $3.6- 5.3 million. The initiative is expected to generate large-scale employment and stimulate economic activity along the coast.
According to the minister, the construction phase alone is projected to create 1,000 to 1,500 direct and indirect jobs, while 1,200 to 1,800 permanent jobs are expected once the project becomes operational. He said the development would help strengthen local livelihoods while supporting long-term growth in the coastal economy.
Located in Karachi’s Eastern Zone, Ziarat Hasan Shah Island stretches approximately four kilometer in length, with widths ranging between 100 and 500 meters. The island features a sandy southeastern shoreline that officials believe is well-suited for hospitality, recreational facilities, and lifestyle resorts.
Unlike many offshore developments, the island is accessible by land, allowing it to be connected directly to Karachi’s existing road network. The ministry said this feature is likely to reduce development costs, accelerate project timelines, and encourage local business participation.
The project is planned under a Build-Operate-Transfer (BOT) or Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model. The government intends to invite private investors with experience in tourism and hospitality, while maintaining safeguards for public interest and sustainable returns.
Officials say the island’s development fits into Pakistan’s broader push to unlock the potential of its 1,000-kilometre coastline and promote the blue economy through port-led growth, tourism expansion, and private investment.
