Pakistan Railways revival plan to boost connectivity
Pakistan Railways is launching a wide-ranging plan to restore dormant routes and expand services, aiming to improve connectivity, strengthen trade flows, and support national energy and logistics needs across the country. This is reported by the railway transport news portal
Pakistan Railways route restoration initiatives
The Sibi–Harnai line reopened after being closed since 2006, marking the first major step. Surveys for seven more routes are complete, including Mari Indus–Lakki Marwat–Bannu, Mandra–Bhaun, Faisalabad–Jaranwala, Fort Abbas–Katal Amara, Tando Adam–Tharu Shah, Mirpur Khas–Nawabshah, and Bostan–Zhob.
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Feasibility studies will decide investment priorities and timelines. And because these lines connect industrial hubs and agricultural zones, they carry the potential to revive local economies and strengthen national supply chains.
Pakistan Railways expansion into energy and freight
Plans include a new rail link connecting the Thar coal mines with Chhor station. This project could become a backbone for coal transport and industrial logistics as Pakistan’s energy demand continues to rise.
Officials emphasized that expansion decisions depend on performance, demand, and financial viability. They explained that new projects must align with long-term logistics strategies, so resources deliver sustainable commercial benefits and meet strategic needs.
Freight modernization is also underway. The ministry is outsourcing 200 freight wagons to private operators, targeting efficiency gains and new investment. Pakistan Railways already runs cargo express routes from Karachi to Multan, Faisalabad, and Lahore, along with freight services between Quetta and Taftan toward Iran.
Industry experts argue that these initiatives show a decisive push toward modernization. And by combining restored routes with new energy-focused links, Pakistan Railways is positioning itself to meet future industrial and export demands.
