Daily Times

KARACHI: Pakistan Customs has acquired two modern surveillance boats worth Rs 300 million to prevent smuggling by ensuring access to the open sea.

The hull of one of the purpose-built boat imported from Turkey was being fitted with equipment at Karachi Shipyard and would be handed over by February next year, said Customs Collector (Preventive) Dr Iftikhar Ahmad while talking to Daily Times.

He said the second boat would be added to the fleet by March 2018. The boats will be equipped with modern technology including water jet engine. “The boats will increase efficiency and outreach of customs officials”, he noted.

A marine department has been set up where trained staff would be deployed for smooth operation of boats. “We have written a letter to the FBR for allocation of funds in the next budget for the maintenance of the boats”, Dr Iftikhar said, adding, “international agencies have been approached for allied equipment or more boats and for training of the staff”.

He informed that navy and Coast Guards have been approached for training of customs officers.

About existing assets, he said that out of three boats, only one was operational; while addition of modern boats would not only improve the efficiency and operability, but also increase accessibility.

Published in Daily Times, December 9^th 2017.