Development priorities were endorsed across all provinces and regions with a focus on strengthening national development
Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar briefing members of the diplomatic corps at the Foreign Office in Islamabad on the anniversary of “Marka-e-Haq” on Tuesday. Photo: X/ FO
ISLAMABAD:
The government on Friday gave the green light to initiate detailed engineering of the long-delayed Main Line Project (ML-I).
The decision was taken during the meeting of the National Economic Council (Ecnec) Executive Committee chaired by Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar on Friday.
During the meeting, development priorities were endorsed across all provinces and regions, with a focus on strengthening national development initiatives and addressing infrastructure and social sector needs, according to a press release issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesperson.
Key initiatives included detailed design of ML-1, Havelian Dry Port, Lowari Tunnel access works, Thar Coal Rail Connectivity, Kachhi Canal, KP irrigation improvements, Jinnah Hospital Islamabad, Sindh Human Capital 1000 Days Program, Sindh flood rehabilitation support and Diamer-Basha Dam related events.
The ML-1 project is seen as a game-changer as it aims to upgrade and modernize key infrastructure to improve cargo and passenger connectivity from Karachi to Peshawar. Work on the project is expected to begin in July 2026 from Karachi port.
Pakistan Railways has initiated the market engagement process for the proposed Karachi-Rohri Section Upgradation of Main Line-1 (ML-1).
Stretching around 480 kilometers, the Karachi-Rohri corridor is planned to be upgraded with modern rail infrastructure to enhance operational efficiency, reliability and safety.
The proposed works include renewal of the permanent road, strengthening of track foundations, installation of modern signaling and telecommunication systems and rehabilitation of bridges and other civil structures along the route.
Once completed, the upgraded line is expected to support train speeds of up to 100 miles per hour, reducing travel time for passengers while increasing freight capacity and improving overall service reliability.
Dar reaffirmed the government’s continued focus on infrastructure development, improved public services, regional balance and long-term economic resilience.
