Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has directed authorities to complete all Pakistan Railways development projects with high quality and within the stipulated timeframe, stressing that a modern railway network is essential for boosting Pakistan’s economy, trade, and regional connectivity.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif chaired a high-level meeting to review the progress of the Pakistan Railways Transformation Plan, where officials briefed him on the status of key infrastructure and connectivity projects.
During the meeting, the prime minister described Pakistan Railways as the least expensive and most efficient mode of transport for both passengers and freight, emphasizing its critical role in the country's future development.
Railway modernisation key to economic growth
The PM said a modern, efficient railway system would play a vital role in promoting Pakistan’s economy, increasing trade, and strengthening regional connectivity.
Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif chairs a review meeting on the implementation of transformation plan of Pakistan Railways. Islamabad, 20 July, 2026. pic.twitter.com/L0WJ6cwamA
— Prime Minister's Office (@PakPMO) July 20, 2026
He also highlighted that the modernization of Pakistan Railways' infrastructure is essential for transforming Pakistan into a regional trade and logistics hub.
Timely completion of development projects
Shehbaz Sharif instructed the relevant authorities to ensure that all railway development projects are completed within the prescribed timeline while maintaining the highest quality standards.
He also directed officials to submit proposals for the upgradation of the Rohri-Multan section of Main Line-1 (ML-1), one of the country's most important railway corridors.
Progress on ML-1, ML-3, Thar Coal rail connectivity
The meeting was informed about the progress on the ML-1 and ML-3 upgradation projects, the Thar Coal Rail Connectivity Project, and other ongoing railway initiatives.
Officials briefed the prime minister that the detailed engineering design for the Karachi-Rohri section of ML-1 has been completed, marking a significant milestone in the modernization project.
اسلام آباد: 20 جولائی، 2026.
— Prime Minister's Office (@PakPMO) July 20, 2026
وزیراعظم محمد شہباز شریف کی زیرِ صدارت پاکستان ریلویز ٹرانسفارمیشن پلان پر پیش رفت کا جائزہ اجلاس آج اسلام آباد میں منعقد ہوا.
اجلاس سے گفتگو کرتے ہوئے وزیرِ اعظم نے کہا کہ پاکستان ریلویز مسافروں اور مال برداری کے لیے سب سے کم لاگت اور مؤثر ذریعۂ… pic.twitter.com/xsY7Fa1BpL
The meeting was also informed that the upgradation of the ML-3 Rohri-Nokundi section will be carried out under the Public Sector Development Programme (PSDP) along with bridge financing.
Thar Coal railway project
Officials said that 60% of the work has been completed on the 112-kilometre railway track connecting Thar Coal to Chhor Railway Station under the Thar Coal Rail Connectivity Project.
According to the briefing, the project is scheduled for completion by December 2026, which is expected to improve coal transportation and strengthen Pakistan's energy supply chain.
International consultant engaged
The meeting was further informed that, on the prime minister's directives, the government has engaged the services of an international consultant to support comprehensive reforms in Pakistan Railways.
The initiative is aimed at improving operational efficiency, modernizing infrastructure, and accelerating the transformation of the country's railway network.
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