The federal government has cleared a modern high-speed rail project linking Islamabad and Rawalpindi, designed to reduce travel time between the two cities to just 20 minutes.
The decision came during a high-level meeting on Monday, jointly chaired by Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi and Railways Minister Hanif Abbasi. Minister of State for Interior Talal Chaudhry, along with senior officials including the Federal Interior Secretary, Secretary Railways, Chairman Capital Development Authority (CDA), Rawalpindi Commissioner, Islamabad Police Inspector General, and Frontier Corps representatives, also attended.
According to the plan, the rail link will run from Margalla Station in Islamabad to Saddar Station in Rawalpindi. The Ministry of Railways will provide the track infrastructure, while the CDA will oversee service management. A framework agreement is set to be finalized and signed next week, paving the way for the import of state-of-the-art trains to ensure fast, comfortable, and efficient operations.
Railways Minister Hanif Abbasi termed the project a milestone for public welfare, highlighting that residents would soon be able to commute quickly and conveniently between the twin cities. Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi said the initiative reflects Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s commitment to modern transport and public relief, while Minister of State Talal Chaudhry described it as a low-cost, high-speed option that will significantly reduce road traffic pressure.
Officials added that the high-speed service is expected to save time and fuel, ease congestion, and provide residents with an affordable urban transport solution. They also noted its potential to boost economic activity and promote environmental sustainability, marking a new chapter in urban mobility for Islamabad and Rawalpindi.
We have a lot of other important issues to address. This project can be put on back burner. This project will be financed through borrowings. Already borrowings have gone above the roof. Govt to gain popularity must improve governance. These projects instead of increasing govt popularity will bring bad name