Based in Karachi, Pakistan, Indus Divers serves as a specialized commercial diving and marine service provider, established to address a critical gap in the regional maritime infrastructure. Founded in 1974 by Syed Hassan Askari, the company emerged from a specific industry need: the lack of local underwater professionals capable of servicing vessels in Pakistani waters. Prior to its establishment, maritime operators in the region often relied on costly international experts for routine underwater maintenance. By developing indigenous capabilities, the company anchored itself as a primary resource for underwater engineering and husbandry services in the Arabian Sea, operating from its headquarters in the port district of Keamari.
The core of the company’s operations revolves around underwater ship maintenance, a vital aspect of vessel efficiency and longevity. Teams of certified divers execute complex tasks such as underwater hull cleaning and propeller polishing, which are essential for reducing drag and fuel consumption for oceangoing fleets. Beyond routine cleaning, the firm provides intricate repair solutions, including underwater welding, cutting, and blanking, allowing vessels to address structural issues without the operational disruption of dry-docking.
A significant portion of the company’s portfolio includes inspection services. Indus Divers is recognized for conducting class-approved in-water surveys, often referred to as Underwater Inspection in Lieu of Dry Docking (UWILD). Utilizing video and photographic technology, their divers assess hull integrity, providing data that satisfies the rigorous requirements of major classification societies. This capability enables shipowners to maintain compliance and seaworthiness while keeping their assets afloat and operational.
The company also engages in high-stakes maritime salvage and wreck removal. Viewing these operations as both a commercial service and an environmental responsibility, the firm has collaborated with global salvage giants to manage complex recovery projects. Furthermore, their expertise extends beyond the shipping sector into civil engineering, where they support hydro-power plants and dams with underwater maintenance. Currently led by the second generation of the Askari family, Indus Divers continues to function as a key support entity for the shipping logistics chain in South Asia, combining decades of local experience with international safety and operational standards.
