LAHORE: Pakistan Railways has launched the market engagement process for the proposed upgrade of the Karachi–Rohri section of the Main Line-1 (ML-1) railway project, a key initiative aimed at modernising the country’s rail infrastructure and improving passenger and freight services.
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The ML-1 project was introduced to development partners, contractors, consultants and technology providers during an early market engagement seminar held in Lahore on Wednesday.
Representatives from international and local construction firms, consultants, development partners and senior Pakistan Railways officials attended the Karachi–Rohri session, which served as a market-sounding exercise to brief stakeholders on the project’s scope, technical parameters and procurement framework.
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During the seminar, Asian Development Bank (ADB) Country Operations Head Nissanka Salgado addressed participants virtually and emphasised the importance of upgrading Pakistan’s railway network to strengthen connectivity and logistics efficiency.
In his keynote address, Pakistan Railways Chairman Mazhar Ali Shah described the Karachi–Rohri corridor as a vital component of the national rail network. He said the route connects major industrial hubs and densely populated regions and plays a central role in passenger and freight movement across the country.
Mr Shah noted that the proposed upgrade would improve operational efficiency, reduce travel time and enhance the railways’ role in supporting Pakistan’s economic and logistics sectors. He also highlighted efforts by Pakistan Railways to achieve greater financial autonomy and adopt digital technologies to improve transparency and service delivery.
Officials from the ML-1 Project Implementation Unit presented the concept plan, outlining the proposed infrastructure improvements and project scope. A question-and-answer session followed, allowing participants to seek clarifications regarding implementation strategies and potential participation.
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The Karachi–Rohri corridor, spanning about 480 kilometres, is planned to be upgraded with modern infrastructure, including improved tracks, advanced signalling and telecommunications systems, and rehabilitation of bridges and civil structures. Once completed, the upgraded line is expected to support train speeds of up to 160 kilometres per hour, reducing travel time and increasing freight capacity.