Sindh and Federal Govt Agree on Major Railway Modernisation Projects

Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah and Federal Minister for Railways Hanif Abbasi have reached a major agreement to modernise the province’s railway network. The plan aims to improve infrastructure, passenger safety, and affordable transport for Sindh’s residents.

Agreement Details and Scope

The meeting, held in Karachi and attended by senior officials from Pakistan Railways and the Sindh government, approved the comprehensive modernisation of Sindh’s 858-kilometre railway network. Key highlights include:

• Upgrading Rohri Railway Station to international standards, with six new escalators and a solar-powered water filtration plant.

• Improving safety at around 100 unmanned and accident-prone railway crossings.

• Restoring six major rail routes that have deteriorated or become non-operational over the years.

• Considering the purchase of six modern Diesel Multiple Unit (DMU) trains to enhance regional and intercity connectivity.

A 25-year framework agreement was also signed to ensure long-term cooperation between the federal and provincial governments on planning, financing, and executing railway projects.

Funding and Implementation

The total estimated cost of railway development schemes is Rs63.26 billion. Sindh has committed Rs6.6 billion for priority projects, while the federal government will allocate Rs1 billion specifically for the Rohri station upgrade. Additionally, Rs6 billion will be used to improve safety at hazardous railway crossings.

Benefits for Sindh Residents

Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah stated that the modernisation projects would benefit 67% of Sindh’s population, particularly those living in remote areas. Enhanced rail services are expected to reduce road traffic, lower congestion, and provide safer, cost-effective access to major cities.

Officials present at the meeting included Sindh Information Minister Sharjeel Inam Memon, Principal Secretary Agha Wasif, Transport Secretary Asad Zamin, Secretary Railways Mazhar Ali, and Pakistan Railways General Manager Aamir Baloch.