Asian Development Bank backs ML-1 modernisation

Islamabad: The Asian Development Bank (ADB) is finalizing a $1.1 billion investment programme to modernize Pakistan Railways’ Main Line-1 (ML-1) between Karachi and Rohri by 2040. The fact-finding mission to discuss project details with the federal and Sindh governments is scheduled for January 2027. This multi-tranche ADB facility will support upgrading the 480km Karachi-Rohri section, which is the core passenger and freight corridor of Pakistan.

The financing will cover climate-resilient railway infrastructure improvements, signalling and operations modernization, and capacity-building measures to enhance efficiency, safety, and sustainability. $1 billion will be sourced from ordinary capital resources, while $100 million will be provided through concessional ordinary capital resources lending.

ADB's support aims to improve national and regional connectivity, logistics efficiency, and economic competitiveness through a fast, safe, reliable, affordable, and environmentally sustainable railway system. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif emphasized the importance of upgrading ML-1 to modernize freight logistics, strengthen regional trade connectivity, and support major industrial initiatives.

Railways Minister Hanif Abbasi informed the ADB vice president that the project is estimated to cost around $2.5 billion and should be completed within three years. The minister also highlighted that Pakistan intends to cooperate with ADB and other development partners to finance the remaining sections of ML-1 from Rohri to Peshawar.