PM Inaugurates Upgraded Shalimar Express, Announces Major Rail Infrastructure Plans

PAKISTAN

KARACHI: Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif on Monday inaugurated the newly upgraded Shalimar Express at Karachi Cantt Station and reviewed ongoing modernization efforts across Pakistan Railways. He was received by Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah, along with federal ministers, diplomats, and senior officials.

During the visit, the prime minister inspected the revamped waiting area, CIP lounge, dining hall, and computerized ticketing system. Federal Minister for Railways Hanif Abbasi briefed him on the modernization drive, noting that significant improvements have been achieved in just eight months, including the renewal of the Shalimar Express and the upgrading of Karachi Cantt Station. He added that Rs 1 billion is being invested in the improvement of Rohri Station, while work is also underway at Karachi City Station.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif announced that Pakistan Railways is outsourcing 14 trains, and that railway hospitals and schools will also be transferred to private administration—while ensuring full protection of employees. He said work is progressing on the ML-1 project, a key component of the country’s rail modernization plan.

The prime minister revealed that Minister Hanif Abbasi has initiated discussions with the Asian Development Bank for a $2 billion loan to upgrade the railway track from Karachi to Rohri, which will eventually link to the Reko Diq project.

Support for KCR and Railway Station Upgrades
Responding to Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah’s request to include the Karachi Circular Railway (KCR) in the CPEC framework, the prime minister assured full federal support. He said he has consistently highlighted the KCR project at international forums and expressed hope that the initiative will soon move toward implementation.

The prime minister added that 54 railway stations have already been modernized nationwide. Once the remaining small and large stations are upgraded, he said he would recommend a presidential award for the Railways Minister in recognition of the department’s progress.

The ceremony concluded with renewed commitments from both federal and provincial leadership to strengthen Pakistan’s railway infrastructure and support long-term connectivity and economic growth. – APP/ER

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