PM Initiates Major Railway Reform Drive

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has reaffirmed the government's commitment to modernising Pakistan Railways, describing an upgraded rail network as essential for boosting trade, improving regional connectivity, and supporting long-term economic growth.

 

Chairing a review meeting on the railway transformation programme, the prime minister instructed officials to speed up work on ongoing projects while ensuring they are completed on schedule without compromising quality. He noted that Pakistan Railways remains the country's most affordable and efficient transport system for both passengers and freight.

 

The prime minister also directed authorities to submit proposals for upgrading the Rohri–Multan section of the Main Line-1 (ML-1), a critical part of Pakistan's railway infrastructure. Officials briefed the meeting on progress made under the ML-1 and ML-3 modernisation projects, the Thar Coal railway connectivity project, and other initiatives aimed at strengthening the rail network.

 

According to the briefing, the detailed engineering design for the Karachi–Rohri section of ML-1 has been completed, while the Rohri–Nokundi section of ML-3 will be upgraded through the Public Sector Development Programme (PSDP) with bridge financing support.

 

Officials further informed the meeting that around 60% of construction on the 112-kilometre railway link connecting the Thar Coal fields to Chhor Railway Station has been completed. The project is expected to be finished by December 2026, improving transport access to one of the country's largest coal-producing regions.

 

The meeting was also told that an international consultant has been appointed to support railway reforms. As part of the restructuring plan, Pakistan Railways has outsourced services at its schools and hospitals, while work is underway to commercialise six major railway stations.