Pakistan’s rail sector has received a major boost as the Asian Development Bank (ADB) approved a $2 billion loan for the Karachi-Rohri railway project. Federal Minister for Railways Muhammad Hanif Abbasi confirmed the development, calling it a turning point for rail modernisation.
The project includes a new 480-kilometre railway track between Karachi and Rohri. After the completion, it will reduce travel time by at least five hours. Authorities are making plans to break ground in July 2026, with completion expected within two and a half to three years.
Karachi-Rohri Railway Project: What It Will Deliver
The ADB-funded Karachi-Rohri railway project aims to reduce road blockage on the main line and improve freight and passenger movement.
Key benefits include:
- Faster passenger travel between Sindh’s major cities
- Improved freight movement to ports
- Reduced pressure on the existing ML-1 route
- Better safety and operational efficiency
Minister Abbasi said the project indicates the priority of the Government to build new tracks, digitize services, and improve passenger facilities.
Read more: Pakistan moves ahead with $475 million IsDB-financed M-6 Sukkur-Hyderabad motorway
Expansion Plans Linked to Reko Diq and Regional Routes
The Karachi-Rohri project links with larger plans under the Reko Diq railway corridor. This includes a 900-kilometre rail route from Rohri to Nokundi, combining new tracks and upgraded sections.
To strengthen cross-border connectivity, Pakistan will also develop an 87-kilometre Nokundi–Taftan rail section, improving links with Iran. In Balochistan, a 54-kilometre People’s Train route worth Rs. 4 billion is also underway.
The minister confirmed plans for eight new regional rail routes across Punjab, Sindh, and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
Provinces to Operate Branch Railway Lines
For the first time, provinces can now operate branch railway lines. Punjab, Sindh, and Balochistan have already allocated funds. Talks with Khyber Pakhtunkhwa continue.
The major goal behind this step is to improve local ownership and faster development.
Service Upgrades and Digital Reforms
Pakistan Railways is also upgrading services nationwide.
- Major stations now offer Wi-Fi
- Rabta App supports digital ticket booking
- A 1,700-km fibre-optic network is under construction
- Security cameras, hostesses, and modern dining cars will be added to all major trains by June 30, 2026
Rawalpindi Railway Station renovation is complete, while Karachi and Lahore stations are going through the phase of safety upgrades.
Looking Ahead
The major aim of Pakistan Railways is to generate Rs. 1 trillion in revenue by June 2026. With ADB support, digital reforms, and new tracks like the Karachi-Rohri railway project, officials keep on believing that the rail network is entering a new phase of growth and stability.