ISLAMABAD: Describing the ML-1 project as important for a major change in Pakistan’s railway system, Federal Minister for Planning Ahsan Iqbal has said that with its upgradation, the train journey from Karachi to Rohri will be reduced from 8 hours to 4.5 hours. According to him, the project will also significantly increase the transportation capacity of the railway.
Addressing the Central Asia Regional Economic Cooperation Program conference in Mongolia, Ahsan Iqbal said that ML-1 is the main pillar of Pakistan’s railway network. Its modernisation is essential for improving trade, economy and regional connectivity. He termed the project a national economic priority rather than just improving the railways.
According to the federal minister, ML-1 handles 76 percent of the country’s passenger traffic and 98 percent of freight traffic. Therefore, the improvement of this main railway route can affect both passenger travel and freight transport.
He said that after the upgrade, the capacity of trains will increase from the current 34 to 120. This will make it possible to increase the movement of trains on the railway network. However, the completion of the project and the achievement of these goals will depend on the construction progress and practical arrangements.
Ahsan Iqbal said that the ML-1 project from Karachi to Rohri will be completed at a cost of about $ 2.5 billion. According to him, the project has progressed beyond the initial stage. On the other hand, the possibility of obtaining financial resources for the upgradation of the railway line from Rohri to Peshawar is being explored.
Railway infrastructure in Pakistan plays a vital role in the movement of passengers and the movement of goods. Improving the freight transport facility from Karachi to other parts of the country can benefit business activities. However, more details regarding the financial requirements, completion time and practical results of the project will be important.
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