Work starts to restore train services in five districts of KP

PESHAWAR: Practical work has begun on a project to revive train services in five districts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, including Peshawar, after approval from the federal government, according to official sources.

The sources said Pakistan Railways has started moving forward on the scheme and has formally informed the provincial government about the development. The initiative is aimed at bringing rail connectivity back to several parts of the province through phased work on multiple sections.

Under the first phase, work will begin on a 62-kilometre railway segment linking Peshawar, Nowshera and Jahangira. Officials described this stretch as an important part of the overall project.

In the second phase, a 65-kilometre section connecting Nowshera, Mardan and Dargai will be developed. The plan also includes restoration of a 27-kilometre railway line between Mardan and Charsadda, along with an 18-kilometre section from Peshawar to Jamrud.

A 60-kilometre Kohat-Jand section will be upgraded at a later stage, the sources added.

Technical and legal process underway

Official sources said the process of nominating technical teams for representation in the Pakistan Railways working group is currently in progress. They added that legal formalities are also being completed before the restoration work moves ahead fully.

Officials further said anti-encroachment operations have already started in the relevant areas to remove hurdles that could affect the rehabilitation of railway tracks.

Expected impact on travel and commerce

According to officials, the restoration of train services is expected to offer passengers affordable, safe and fast travel facilities. They said the project is also likely to support commercial activity in the province and contribute to higher revenue for Pakistan Railways.

The move has raised expectations of improved transportation links across the province, particularly in districts covered under the planned restoration and upgrade works. The project covers Peshawar, Nowshera, Mardan, Charsadda and Kohat districts, while the planned sections also extend to Jahangira, Dargai, Jamrud and Jand as part of the wider rail network revival.

Official sources said the restoration effort has now entered the implementation stage following federal approval, with coordination between Pakistan Railways and the provincial government already underway.

The project includes phased development, restoration and upgradation of rail sections, with authorities simultaneously addressing administrative, technical and legal requirements tied to the initiative.

Officials said the same initiative is also expected to help stimulate business activity in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and significantly improve Pakistan Railways’ revenue.