Breakthrough of Karachi-Rohri section set for July 2026. upgrade of ML-I urged
The Railway Directorate has submitted the ML-I project brief to ECNEC without having arranged funding from the Public Sector Development Programme, China or any other international financial institution. Photo: AFP
Islamabad:
A delegation of the Asian Development Bank (ADB), led by its Director General Leah Gutierrez, on Friday called on Federal Minister for Railways Muhammad Hanif Abbasi to review the progress on upgrading Main Line-I (ML-I), the most critical infrastructure project of Pakistan Railways.
During the meeting, detailed discussions were held on the scope, funding and implementation strategy of the ML-I upgrade, according to a press release.
Officials informed the meeting that ML-I serves as the backbone of Pakistan railways, facilitating nearly 80% passenger traffic and around 90% freight movement across the country.
Considering the current state of railway infrastructure, participants highlighted the urgent need to upgrade ML-I to ensure safe, efficient and reliable railway operations.
The project is expected to significantly improve connectivity, reduce travel time and enhance Pakistan’s logistical and commercial capacity.
Hanif Abbasi described ML-I as a key project for the national economy, saying its modernization will play a vital role in promoting economic growth, improving regional connectivity and ensuring sustainable transport.
The ADB delegation reaffirmed its continued cooperation and confidence in the progress of the ML-I project and expressed its commitment to support Pakistan Railways in its reform and modernization efforts.
Both sides also agreed that the groundbreaking ceremony of the ML-I Karachi-to-Rohri section will be held in July 2026, marking a major milestone in the execution of the project.
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