Pakistan’s $2.5b rail overhaul: Trains to hit 160km/h on key route

Pakistan is set to embark on a $2.5 billion railway upgrade project at the beginning of 2027, with the aim of increasing train speeds to up to 160km/h along a crucial corridor. Known as the Main Line-1 (ML-1) project, the first phase will focus on the 480km stretch between Karachi and Rohri/Sukkur, which carries 76% of passenger traffic and 98% of freight on Pakistan Railways.

The upgrade aims to address the critical issues of ageing track, derailments, and accidents that have plagued this section for decades. To prevent unauthorized access, fencing will be installed on both sides of the new up and down tracks. Railway Minister Hanif Abbasi expressed urgency, stating that the project should commence by January 2027, as per Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif's directive.

The selection of the Karachi-Rohri stretch as the starting point is due to its status as one of the most problematic railway sections, with most derailments and accidents occurring there due to the deteriorating condition of the track. Once completed, the ML-1 project is expected to significantly improve train speeds, passenger facilities, and overall railway performance.

Financing for the project is anticipated to come from the Asian Development Bank, with potential co-financing from other international bodies such as the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank, World Bank, and Islamic Development Bank. Pakistan Railways is also exploring international tendering and bidding processes for the project, which is expected to span two-and-a-half to three years for civil works.

Global contractors have been invited to participate in the online early market engagement session scheduled for September 8.