7 Rescued, 4 Missing After Merchant Vessel Collides with Fishing Boat off Karachi’s Manora

Karachi, January 23, 2026 — At least seven people were rescued while four others remain missing after a merchant vessel collided with a fishing boat near Manora, close to the entrance of Karachi Harbour, officials confirmed on Friday.

According to Pakistan Coast Guard and port authorities, the incident occurred in the early hours when the fishing boat was returning from deep-sea activity. The impact caused the smaller vessel to partially submerge, throwing crew members into the sea. Nearby boats and rescue teams responded immediately, managing to pull seven fishermen to safety.

Rescue officials stated that search and rescue operations are ongoing, involving Coast Guard units and local fishermen familiar with the area’s tidal patterns. The missing crew members are believed to be trapped or swept away by strong currents near the shipping channel.

A senior Karachi Port Trust (KPT) official, speaking at the harbour control office, said preliminary findings suggest poor visibility and navigation congestion may have contributed to the collision. An inquiry has been launched to determine responsibility and assess whether maritime safety protocols were followed.

The rescued fishermen were shifted to a nearby medical facility for evaluation, where doctors confirmed they are in stable condition. Authorities have also alerted families of the missing crew and assured them that rescue efforts will continue until all possibilities are exhausted.

Why it matters now: The incident highlights persistent maritime safety risks in Karachi’s busy harbour zone, where fishing vessels and large commercial ships frequently operate in close proximity, raising concerns over navigation controls and enforcement.

Published on Chatzyr.net

Written By City Affairs Desk | Team Chatzyr