ISPS code: original NIC must for Port Qasim entry passes

The Port Qasim Authority (PQA) has asked exporters to produce original copy of National Identity Card for obtaining gate pass to enter the port.
The condition has been laid down with the start of enforcement of International Ship and Port Security (ISPS) code, effective from July 1.
Earlier, the gate passes were issued on production of photocopy of the NICs.
Karachi Customs Agents Group (KCAG) Information Secretary Naushad Ahmed has welcomed the new procedure, but said that it should be applied to all people entering the port.
He said that the port security staff demanded original NIC from the KCAG members, while they allowed entry to the labourers on production of photostat copies of the NIC. The rule should be applied to everyone, he added.
He, however, said that most of the KCAG members possessed permanent passes, but some members, who visited the port seldom for clearance of a solitary consignment face problem at the port gate.
Naushad suggested that the PQA security staff should facilitate the exporters and their clearing agents and should allow them entry after checking shipping documents.