Pioneering sustainable port solutions: HR Wallingford's impact in Pakistan

HR Wallingford is a global leader and expert in water engineering and environmental hydraulics. Using research, data insights and collective expertise, the company creates smarter and more resilient solutions for water-related challenges and opportunities, for now and the future. Its work supports infrastructure developers, operators, research bodies and governing authorities.

HR Wallingford has been applying its world-class British expertise to develop resilient and sustainable port solutions in Pakistan for over five decades. The company's comprehensive approach combines cutting-edge science with practical engineering to ensure Pakistan's maritime infrastructure can withstand current and future climate challenges.

Through its partnership with Port Qasim, the port responsible for handling approximately half of Pakistan’s trade, HR Wallingford plays a vital role in supporting the country's economic growth. In response to anticipated increases in trade and the growing size of vessels, HR Wallingford assessed the feasibility of expanding the port’s navigation channel. The company conducted a comprehensive technical feasibility study, evaluating the navigation and dredging requirements to widen and deepen the existing channel and to establish an additional navigation route. Using advanced ship navigation simulators, HR Wallingford tested the feasibility of transiting larger vessels through the proposed wider and deeper approach.

Based on HR Wallingford's findings and recommendations, the port can now invest in improved accessibility. The company continues to offer expert advice and training to the local team in-country. This partnership highlights UK companies' commitment to sustainable development and climate resilience. HR Wallingford is at the forefront of addressing climate challenges, providing innovative water management solutions that are both effective and sustainable. By leveraging its knowledge, HR Wallingford continues to lead the way in living and working sustainably with water.