Pakistan targets 2024 launch for flagship ML-1 railway upgrade

Pakistan has announced that the long-delayed Main Line-1 (ML-1) railway upgrade project could begin this year. The flagship project, a key component of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), aims to modernize the country’s primary railway artery, which carries approximately 80 percent of passenger traffic and 90 percent of freight between Karachi and Peshawar.

Authorities are currently focusing on the 480-km Karachi-Rohri section. The government is working with the Asian Development Bank (ADB) to advance this initial phase. Railways Minister Muhammad Hanif Abbasi stated that the upgrade is essential for increasing train speeds, improving passenger facilities, and enhancing the overall performance of Pakistan Railways.

Following a meeting chaired by Pakistan Railways Chairman Syed Mazhar Ali Shah, officials were directed to complete the current review phase by October 30. Additionally, a second phase of market consultations with experts and stakeholders is scheduled to begin on September 8 to gather technical expertise and ensure project effectiveness.