The Asian Development Bank on Friday reviewed progress on the upgradation of Pakistan Railways’ Main Line I during a meeting with Federal Minister for Railways Muhammad Hanif Abbasi, with both sides agreeing to hold the project’s groundbreaking for the Karachi to Rohri section in July 2026.
According to an official news release, the ADB delegation, led by Director General Leah Gutierrez, held detailed discussions with the minister on the scope, financing and implementation strategy of the project, which is regarded as the most critical component of Pakistan Railways’ infrastructure.
Officials told the meeting that ML I serves as the backbone of the rail network, carrying nearly 80 percent of passenger traffic and about 90 percent of freight movement across the country.
Participants stressed that the current condition of railway infrastructure made the upgradation of ML I urgent to ensure safe, efficient and reliable rail operations. The project is expected to enhance connectivity, reduce travel time and strengthen the country’s logistics and trade capacity.
Minister Abbasi described ML I as a key national economic project, saying its modernisation would support economic growth, improve regional connectivity and promote sustainable transport.
The ADB delegation reaffirmed its confidence in the project’s progress and reiterated its commitment to continue supporting Pakistan Railways in its reform and modernisation efforts.
