Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has said that modernising Pakistan Railways is essential to transforming the country into a regional trade and logistics hub, stressing the need to accelerate infrastructure upgrades and improve operational efficiency.
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Chairing a review meeting on the Pakistan Railways Transformation Plan in Islamabad, the prime minister directed authorities to expedite railway development projects while ensuring they are completed within the approved timelines and according to the highest quality standards.
He described rail transport as the most cost-effective and efficient mode for both passengers and freight, adding that a modern railway network would strengthen Pakistan’s economy, facilitate trade, and enhance regional connectivity.
During the meeting, the prime minister instructed officials to submit proposals for upgrading the Rohri–Multan section of the Main Line-1 (ML-1) railway project. He was also briefed on the progress of ML-1 and ML-3, the Thar Coal Railway Connectivity Project, and other ongoing initiatives.
Officials informed the meeting that the Detailed Engineering Design (DED) for the Karachi–Rohri section of ML-1 has been completed. The ML-3 Rohri–Nok Kundi upgrade will be financed through the Public Sector Development Programme (PSDP) and bridge financing arrangements.
The meeting was further told that 60 percent of the 112-kilometre Thar Coal Railway Connectivity Project, linking Thar Coal to Chhor Railway Station, has been completed. The project is expected to be finished by December 2026.
Authorities also informed the prime minister that an international consultant has been engaged to support institutional reforms within Pakistan Railways. Railway-operated schools and hospitals have already been outsourced, while work has begun on the commercialisation of six major railway stations.
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The meeting was attended by senior federal ministers and government officials overseeing transport, planning, finance and privatisation. The government believes that the transformation plan, combined with digitalisation, private-sector investment and infrastructure upgrades, will improve railway services, increase revenue generation and support Pakistan’s long-term economic growth.