Centre, Sindh agree to modernise provincial rail network

The federal and Sindh governments have agreed to a multi-billion-rupee project aimed at overhauling Sindh’s rail network. The project, which will begin on the Karachi-Kashmore and Karachi-Tharparkar routes, is expected to provide modern travel facilities to millions of commuters across Sindh.

The agreement was reached during a meeting between Federal Railways Minister Hanif Abbasi and Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah on Thursday. CM Shah committed to an investment of Rs6.6 billion, which will fund the replacement of 100 out of the 308 unmanned railway crossings in the province.

The project will also include the restoration of the railway system and the launch of six trains in the first phase, with plans for an additional six in the second phase. CM Shah also instructed the immediate release of funds for the project to expedite its implementation.

The meeting focused on the suburban railway transportation plan, designed to provide direct connectivity between city centres. The initiative is set to benefit around 37 million people, making up 67% of Sindh’s total population. The proposed railway restoration plan includes the revival of 858 kilometres of tracks across six major routes, such as Kotri-Dadu, Dadu-Larkana-Habibkot, Hyderabad-Mirpurkhas-Marvi, Rohri-Jacobabad, Jacobabad-Kashmore Colony, and Hyderabad-Badin.

On the occasion, Sindh Senior Minister Sharjeel Inam Memon explained that the restoration of the railway network will reduce travel time, particularly between Kotri and Dadu, where the commute time will be cut by around 90 minutes. The total estimated cost of the project is Rs63.26 billion.

Under the proposed model, the Sindh government will bear the entire cost of the infrastructure, while Pakistan Railways will provide the necessary right-of-way (RoW) and approvals. The project also includes the conversion of 308 unmanned crossings into manned ones, at an estimated cost of Rs6 billion, aimed at improving safety and reducing accidents.

CM Shah stressed that the primary objective of the project is to modernise the transport infrastructure and provide affordable and safe travel options for Sindh’s rural areas. He pointed out that the suburban railway system would not only ease traffic congestion but also offer a more efficient and secure mode of transport for millions of people. He further added that the funding for the 858-kilometer rail network would prioritise safety and passenger comfort.

Federal Minister Abbasi expressed his optimism about the collaboration between the federal and provincial governments, saying it would mark a new chapter in the development of Pakistan Railways. He assured that Pakistan Railways would provide full technical assistance and support, including the necessary right-of-way for the project.

The meeting also focused on the upgradation of Rohri railway station, a project that will cost Rs999.97 million. The upgradation will involve beautification of the platforms, installation of six escalators, renovation of station buildings, and the construction of a solar-powered water filtration plant. It was decided that the upgradation of the Rohri station will be completed within six months.

The meeting also discussed the alarming number of accidents at railway crossings. According to Pakistan Railways, 37% of all railway accidents occur at unmanned crossings. As part of the project, the Sindh government has been requested to provide Rs6 billion for converting 100 high-risk crossings into manned ones. This move is expected to significantly reduce accidents and improve public safety.

The meeting made a commitment to finalise a 25-year framework partnership agreement between Pakistan Railways and the Sindh government. This long-term cooperation aims to ensure continuous development and modernisation of the railway network, bringing lasting benefits to the people of Sindh.