Pakistan Railways Chairman Syed Mazhar Ali Shah has directed officials to complete the review phase of the Main Line-1 project by October 30, 2026, as the government moves to advance the long-delayed railway modernisation programme.
Shah issued the instructions while chairing a high-level meeting at Pakistan Railways Headquarters. International design consultants, review consultants and senior railway officials also attended. The meeting examined the proposed upgrade of the Karachi-Rohri section and reviewed preparation, progress and future steps.
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The chairman also ordered continuous monitoring of the project. Officials will now conduct weekly progress reviews to address outstanding technical and procedural matters.
Pakistan Railways also decided to begin the second phase of market consultation on September 8, 2026. The process will involve detailed discussions with market experts and relevant stakeholders on project preparation, technical issues and implementation options.
Karachi-Rohri Section Takes Centre Stage
Pakistan Railways plans to use market proposals, international experience and expert advice to make ML-1 more modern, effective and commercially viable.
Officials also agreed to maintain merit, transparency and competitiveness throughout project preparation and implementation.
The Karachi-Rohri corridor stretches about 480 kilometres and forms a critical part of Pakistan’s main railway network. Earlier market engagement outlined plans to renew tracks, strengthen foundations, modernise signalling and telecommunications, and rehabilitate bridges and civil structures.
Pakistan Railways expects the upgraded section to support train speeds of up to 160 kilometres per hour. The improvements should also increase freight capacity, cut travel times and improve service reliability.
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The first market engagement phase began in March. Development partners, contractors, consultants and technology providers took part in discussions on the project’s scope and procurement approach.
Hanif Abbasi Calls ML-1 Key to Railway Modernisation
Federal Minister for Railways Muhammad Hanif Abbasi received a briefing after the meeting and expressed satisfaction with the progress.
“ML-1 is the foundation for the development and modernization of Pakistan Railways and for meeting future requirements,” Abbasi said.
He said the upgrade would significantly improve train speeds, passenger facilities and the overall performance of Pakistan Railways. The minister added that officials would incorporate the best proposals and expert opinions into the project.
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Abbasi also stressed the importance of merit, transparency and competitiveness. He said there would be no compromise on these principles during the project’s development.
The minister said Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif was taking a keen interest in ML-1 and had directed officials to complete it within the stipulated timeframe. APP reported that the prime minister was also monitoring progress on the project.
Abbasi expressed optimism that the flagship project could move towards formal launch this year as the review and consultation processes advance.
