Pakistan Railways targets 20% freight share after ML-1 upgrade

September 14, 2026 (MLN): Pakistan Railways has approved a strategic reform roadmap aimed at increasing freight operations, improving passenger services and expanding private-sector participation across the railway system.

Under the reform plan, Pakistan Railways aims to increase its share of the national freight market from around 8% currently to approximately 20% following the upgradation of Main Line-1 (ML-1).

The roadmap focuses on expanding the transportation of coal, containers, cement, fertilizers, rock phosphate and other bulk commodities through the rail network, according to a press release issued.

The reforms also envisage infrastructure development to improve passenger services and accelerate digital transformation across the railway system.

The plan further seeks greater private-sector participation as part of efforts to make Pakistan Railways more efficient, customer-oriented and financially sustainable.

The proposed expansion in freight operations could strengthen rail’s role in national logistics by shifting a greater volume of bulk and containerized cargo from road to rail.

The ML-1 upgrade is expected to provide the infrastructure base required to support higher freight volumes and improve the railway network’s commercial viability.

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