A large barge with heavy machinery, including a tall crane, is floating on a body of water. The crane is painted in red and white, towering above the vessel with a clear blue sky and a few scattered clouds in the background. There are visible red and black structures on the barge, and the water reflects a calm setting.

National Dredging & Marine Services (Pvt) Ltd (NDMS) has been established jointly by NLC, Karachi Port Trust, Port Qasim Authority and Gwadar Port Authority on the directives of the Government of Pakistan to perform dredging and marine works of national ports.

Strategic Importance

  • National Control of Dredging: Ends reliance on foreign contractors by developing indigenous capacity for capital and maintenance dredging at Pakistani ports
  • Blue Economy Enabler: Supports maritime trade, connectivity, and port efficiency—critical for Pakistan’s economic growth and regional competitiveness
  • National Security: Ensures continuous navigability of channels, essential for trade, transit, and maritime defense preparedness
A large industrial excavator is positioned on a floating platform on a body of water. The excavator has a long articulated arm with a claw-like bucket, and a cabin for the operator. The platform appears to be a barge, indicating use for dredging or construction in aquatic environments. The sky is overcast, casting a muted light over the scene.

Economic Benefits

  • Saving Foreign Exchange: Annual dredging worth billions of rupees is currently outsourced. NDMS will retain these funds within the country
  • Asset Development: Acquisition and operation of dredgers and barges will create long-term national assets
  • Revenue Generation: Provides a self-sustaining business model by undertaking dredging contracts at local ports and expanding regionally.

Capacity Building

  • Employment & Skill Development: Trains local manpower in dredging and hydrographic survey operations
  • Technology Transfer: Collaboration with international partners ensures transfer of modern dredging technology and practices.

Governance & National Vision

  • Established under the Government of Pakistan’s directive
  • Committed to transparency, accountability, and efficiency in line with corporate governance standards

NDMS is not only a cost-saving initiative but also a strategic step toward maritime self-reliance, safeguarding national security, creating jobs, and promoting the blue economy.