PESHAWAR: China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) is poised to transform Pakistan’s transportation landscape with a series of railway projects that will modernize the country’s aging system and boost connectivity.
One of the most pivotal projects is the Mainline 1 (ML-1) railway project, which will modernize Pakistan’s existing 2,655 kilometers of railway tracks. This upgrade will allow trains to achieve speeds of up to 165 kilometers per hour and dramatically boost line capacity from 34 to more than 150 trains daily in both directions. The project will follow the Build-Operate-Transfer (BOT) model, facilitated by a public-private partnership mechanism.
Another key project is the construction of a new railway line from Quetta in Balochistan to Kotla Jam in Punjab, passing through Zhob and Dera Ismail Khan. This strategic project will foster connectivity among three major provinces in Pakistan, opening new horizons for transportation and trade.
The proposed reconstruction of the Quetta-Taftan railway track is also expected to significantly enhance mobility and trade, catalyzing economic growth in the region. This 633-kilometer-long railway line is a vital artery for trade between Pakistan and Afghanistan, and its upgrade will have a transformative impact on the region.
Additionally, the Karachi Circular Railway project, built on a public-private partnership model with an estimated cost of $1.9 billion, stands as a game-changing development for the residents of Pakistan’s largest city. This initiative promises to redefine urban transportation and convenience, with a fleet of 300 electric trains serving 45 stations across the city.
The CPEC railway projects are being implemented at a rapid pace, and their completion will usher in a new era of transportation in Pakistan. By connecting major cities and economic hubs, these projects will promote economic growth and development, improve access to markets, and create new job opportunities.
The CPEC railway projects are a testament to the strong partnership between China and Pakistan. Through their shared commitment to infrastructure development, the two countries are laying the foundation for a brighter future for the region.
