Sindh, Railways Ministry agree on major projects to modernise train travel

The Sindh government and the federal Ministry of Railways have agreed to undertake a series of major initiatives aimed at upgrading Pakistan’s railway network and improving passenger facilities, following an important meeting between Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah and Federal Minister for Railways Hanif Abbasi in Karachi.

According to details, the two sides decided to launch a new passenger train on the Karachi–Sukkur route, spanning 480 kilometres, with a joint investment of Rs 6 billion. The initiative is expected to provide affordable and comfortable travel for commuters while boosting regional connectivity.

In a move to improve infrastructure and facilities, it was agreed that the Sindh Solid Waste Management Board would take charge of cleanliness at Karachi Cantt and City stations, ensuring better hygiene and a more welcoming environment for passengers. The meeting also finalised plans for the renovation of key railway stations across Sindh and the removal of encroachments affecting railway operations.

On the national level, the two sides decided that the much-anticipated Main Line-1 (ML-1) project would begin from Keamari, with instructions to accelerate the upgradation process. Both federal and provincial authorities also reached a consensus on jointly moving forward with the long-delayed Karachi Circular Railway (KCR) project, seen as vital for easing urban transport challenges.

Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah lauded the recent steps for the revival of Pakistan Railways, remarking that “the real ownership of the railways is visible after a long time.” He expressed confidence that the decisions would prove to be milestones in building a modern, integrated, and efficient railway network, ultimately benefiting the people and strengthening the national economy.