Pakistan is preparing a major Railway modernization project for the Rohri-Multan section of Main Line-1 (ML-1). The proposed project is expected to cost more than Rs. 450 billion.
The plan comes after hundreds of train accidents reported over the past decade. Officials recorded 399 train derailments and 158 other accidents during this period.
The figures have increased concerns about Pakistan’s aging railway infrastructure. The government now wants to upgrade critical parts of the ML-1 network.
Federal Planning Minister Ahsan Iqbal chaired a meeting on the project. He said ML-1 modernization remains an important government priority.
Rs. 450 Billion Project Under Review
The Rohri-Multan section covers approximately 449 kilometres. Its estimated development cost exceeds Rs. 450 billion.
The government is reviewing several options to finance the project. These include the Public Sector Development Programme and foreign funding.
Authorities are also considering public-private partnerships. Local commercial bank loans and domestic capital markets are additional options.
The Frontier Works Organization (FWO) has proposed using private-sector investment to develop the section.
However, Ahsan Iqbal directed officials to conduct an independent feasibility study. The study will examine the project’s technical, financial and economic viability.
The findings will help authorities decide the most suitable financing structure.
Railway Accidents Raise Safety Concerns
Officials highlighted the accident record during the meeting. A total of 399 derailments were reported over the last 10 years.
Another 158 railway-related accidents were also recorded during the same period. Officials identified deteriorating infrastructure as a major concern.
The data has added urgency to efforts to improve railway safety. Modern infrastructure could help reduce operational risks and improve service reliability.
The minister also directed the Ministry of Railways to estimate future equipment requirements.
These requirements will include locomotives, freight wagons and passenger coaches. They will be included in a broader modernization strategy.
Karachi-Rohri ML-1 Section Also Advancing
The government is also preparing to upgrade another important ML-1 section.
According to the minister, work on the Karachi-Rohri section could begin during the current fiscal year. The Asian Development Bank is expected to support the project.
The section stretches for around 480 kilometres. It serves as a major route for passenger and freight railway traffic.
ADB financing is expected to support modern signaling and improved railway operations. It will also help strengthen safety and climate resilience.
The project could improve regional connectivity and transportation efficiency.
Government Seeks Alternative Financing
Pakistan faces growing pressure to fund large infrastructure projects. Reductions in development spending have increased the need for alternative financing sources.
Private investment could help reduce pressure on government resources. Public-private partnerships may also provide another route for major railway projects.
The proposed Rohri-Multan upgrade is therefore being examined from several financial perspectives.
Ahsan Iqbal described ML-1 as more than a transport project. He said modernization could support passenger travel, freight movement and trade.
Better railway infrastructure could also contribute to wider economic activity.
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The government is expected to make further decisions after the feasibility assessment. The project’s final financing model will depend on its technical and economic evaluation.
