ISLAMABAD, May 20 (ABC): Pakistan Railways is moving ahead with plans to rehabilitate more than 1,400 kilometres of railway branch lines in Punjab while also advancing two suburban rail projects in Sindh valued at over Rs44.5 billion. The initiative is part of a broader railway modernization program aimed at improving passenger mobility, freight transport, and regional connectivity across Pakistan.
According to official documents, the Ministry of Railways is coordinating with provincial governments to expand and modernize railway infrastructure, including track renewal, bridge rehabilitation, and signalling upgrades.
What is Pakistan Railways planning?
The railway modernization program focuses on improving existing rail infrastructure rather than building entirely new networks. The planned work includes rehabilitation of branch lines, modernization of signalling and telecommunication systems, and improvements in train speed and axle load capacity.
A major priority under the program is the Karachi-to-Rohri section of Main Line-1 (ML-1), which is considered strategically important for both freight movement and passenger transport.
The proposed upgrades are intended to improve operational efficiency, increase safety standards, and reduce travel times on key rail corridors.
Which railway lines in Punjab are included?
Pakistan Railways and the Punjab government signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) on April 16, 2026, following cabinet approval for the rehabilitation and modernization initiative.
In addition to the Lahore–Rawalpindi section, branch lines covering around 1,415 kilometres have been prioritized for upgrades. These include:
- Rawalpindi–Kasur
- Pakpattan–Lodhran
- Sargodha–Malakwal
- Lala Musa–Chak Jhumra–Shaheenabad
- Shorkot–Jhang–Sargodha
- Sheikhupura–Shorkot
- Kot Adu–Dera Ghazi Khan–Kashmore
- Shahdara–Narowal
- Narowal–Sialkot
The Punjab Department of Transport has engaged the National Engineering Services Pakistan (NESPAK) to conduct feasibility studies for the proposed work. The studies are expected to be completed within eight months.
What suburban rail projects are planned in Sindh?
Pakistan Railways has also proposed two suburban rail corridors in Sindh to improve transportation for local populations and strengthen regional links.
The first proposed route runs from Kotri to Rohri through Dadu, Larkana, Habibkot, Jacobabad, and Shikarpur. The corridor covers approximately 434 kilometres.
According to project documents, the estimated cost for infrastructure upgrades and diesel multiple unit (DMU) services on this route is Rs23.93 billion.
The second suburban corridor would connect Hyderabad, Mirpurkhas, Marvi, and Badin over a distance of around 300 kilometres. The estimated project cost for this route is Rs20.59 billion.
Combined, the two suburban rail projects are expected to cost Rs44.52 billion.
Why do these railway upgrades matter?
Railway infrastructure plays a central role in Pakistan’s Punjab transport and logistics network. Upgrades to branch lines and suburban corridors could improve connectivity between urban and rural areas, support freight movement, and provide additional public transport options.
Improved signalling systems and track rehabilitation may also help increase operational reliability and passenger safety.
The modernization effort is part of wider government plans to strengthen transport infrastructure and improve regional mobility.
What happens next?
The approval process for the Sindh suburban rail projects has already been initiated, according to official documents.
Pakistan Railways has also shared future project proposals with the Sindh Mass Transit Authority (SMTA) for further review and finalization.
Feasibility studies for the Punjab branch line upgrades are currently underway, and future implementation timelines are expected to depend on project approvals, financing arrangements, and technical planning.
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