Pakistan Railways to undergo ML-1 upgrade and corporate reforms

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has directed authorities to expedite the upgradation of the Main Line-1 (ML-1) and implement corporate-style reforms within Pakistan Railways. The goal of these reforms is to enhance efficiency and achieve economic self-sufficiency for the national rail network.

To finance the 1,726-kilometre ML-1 project, the Prime Minister approved the commercial utilization of railway land. This includes using retrieved land, identified through joint efforts by the National Accountability Bureau and the Ministry of Railways, to secure bank funding for construction. A comprehensive strategy for this commercialization and funding plan is due within two weeks.

The ML-1 upgrade is divided into four major sections: Karachi–Rohri, Rohri–Multan, Multan–Lahore, and Lahore–Peshawar. While international financing is supporting the Karachi–Rohri section, the government is exploring domestic resources for the remaining segments. The project aims to improve passenger travel facilities and expand freight transport capabilities.