ISLAMABAD: The Private Power and Infrastructure Board (PPIB) has supported the request of Port Qasim Electric Power Company Limited (PQEPCL) to import an anti-drone system and bomb-proof vehicles to ensure the security of Chinese and Pakistani staff working on the power plant and its assets.
Sources close to the Managing Director of PPIB informed Newzshewz that PQEPCL has formally requested the Ministries of Defence and Interior for No Objection Certificates (NOCs) to import the necessary security equipment. These requests were made in response to the escalating security concerns for personnel working at the plant.
PQEPCL operates a 1,320 MW coal-fired power plant at Port Qasim, Karachi, Sindh. Commissioned in April 2018, the plant is part of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) initiative and was established under Pakistan’s 2015 power generation policy.
In its letters, PQEPCL highlighted the inadequacy of its existing bulletproof vehicles to ensure the safety of its workers. The company cited a tragic incident on October 6, 2024, when a suicide attack near Karachi Airport resulted in the deaths of two Chinese nationals, raising concerns about security risks for employees working on CPEC projects.
The Managing Director of PPIB stated that, in light of the rising security threats in the region, PQEPCL has stressed the urgent need for enhanced protective measures to safeguard its staff. The Ministries of Interior and Defence have been requested to expedite the process of issuing the NOCs in accordance with relevant laws, policies, and regulations.
PQEPCL’s CEO, Liang YongBin, has directly reached out to the Ministries of Defence and Interior to seek approval for importing these critical security measures. The request follows the recent attack near Karachi Airport, after which Pakistan compensated the families of the deceased.
The CEO also noted that the 43 Wing Bhittai Rangers Camp in Karachi is currently involved in the procurement and installation of the anti-drone system at the power plant site. Correspondence from the Rangers’ office, dated October 18 and November 11, 2024, has outlined the progress and expected timelines for deploying the system.
“We request support for the importation of an anti-drone system to enhance the protection and security of Chinese and Pakistani personnel, assets, and infrastructure at the Port Qasim coal-fired power plant,” the CEO stated.
The company emphasized that recent incidents have underscored the urgent need for stronger security measures for foreign nationals working on critical projects in Pakistan. The October 6 suicide attack near Karachi’s Jinnah International Airport, which resulted in fatalities and injuries, highlighted the vulnerabilities faced by workers on CPEC projects.
“We assure that all equipment will be used exclusively for the protection of Chinese and Pakistani workers. We are committed to complying with all relevant laws and regulations during the importation process and throughout the use of the equipment,” the CEO added, providing further details about the anti-drone system.
The CEO also expressed appreciation for the attention given to this urgent matter and hoped for a favorable response, which would not only enhance security but also strengthen bilateral relations between Pakistan and China.
In a separate letter to the Secretary of the Interior, PQEPCL’s CEO requested a No Objection Certificate (NOC) for the importation of bomb-proof vehicles to be used by Chinese nationals working at the Port Qasim Power Plant. The CEO emphasized the importance of these vehicles, stating that given the current security situation, the company plans to import at least two bomb-proof vehicles based on its financial and operational needs.
“We believe that importing bomb-proof vehicles will significantly enhance the safety of Chinese engineers and investors. These vehicles are specifically designed for high-risk environments and will be essential for safe transportation during diplomatic missions and business operations,” the CEO said. Detailed specifications for the vehicles have been shared with the Ministry of Interior.
