Pakistan Railways to kick off ML-I work in July 2026

January 13, 2026 (MLN):  Main Line-I (ML-I) work from Karachi Port is set to begin in July 2026, which marks a major step toward modernizing Pakistan’s north–south rail corridor and enhancing cargo handling and transportation efficiency.

During his recent visit to Karachi, Federal Minister for Railways Muhammad Hanif Abbasi met with Chairman Karachi Port Trust (KPT), Rear Admiral (R) Shahid Ahmed,  to finalize strategies for improving port logistics and freight movement.

Both officials agreed on strengthening the railway system to ensure efficient transportation of cargo from the port, APP reported.

The meeting also highlighted plans to modernize the 54-kilometer railway section between KPT and Pipri and operate four daily freight trains to boost rail-based cargo movement.

Minister Abbasi emphasized ongoing reforms in Pakistan Railways, aimed at shifting freight from road to rail, expanding cargo handling capacity, and upgrading infrastructure connected to Karachi Port.

Efforts include digitization measures such as the Rail Tag system for real-time tracking, operational weigh bridges to curb overloading, and the introduction of free Wi-Fi and ATM facilities at major stations to enhance passenger services.

Both the railways ministry and KPT reaffirmed their commitment to jointly improving Karachi Port’s logistics efficiency, aligning with broader efforts to modernize Pakistan’s rail network, strengthen trade connectivity, and support national economic growth.

The initiative builds on earlier ML-I plans, including a previous agreement with the Asian Development Bank which set the stage for a comprehensive upgrade of Pakistan’s north–south rail corridor.

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