ISLAMABAD: Work on the Main Line-I railway project will commence from Karachi Port in July 2026, Federal Minister for Railways Muhammad Hanif Abbasi said on Tuesday, outlining plans to overhaul cargo transportation and port connectivity.
The minister made the announcement during his visit to Karachi, where he held a meeting with Karachi Port Trust Chairman Rear Admiral (retd) Shahid Ahmed. According to an official press release, both sides agreed on a joint strategy to improve logistics operations and enhance cargo handling at the port through stronger rail connectivity.
Abbasi said the government was pursuing major reforms in the freight transport sector, with a focus on shifting cargo movement from roads to rail to reduce costs and improve efficiency. He added that Pakistan Railways would significantly expand its freight handling capacity in the coming months.
As part of the plan, railway infrastructure linked to Karachi Port will be upgraded to ensure smoother and faster cargo movement. The minister said the 54-kilometre railway section between Karachi Port Trust and Pipri would be modernised to support higher volumes of freight traffic.
He further announced that Pakistan Railways aims to operate four freight trains daily within the next five months, describing the move as a key step towards strengthening rail-based cargo transportation.
Chairman KPT Rear Admiral (retd) Shahid Ahmed said bulk cargo transportation through rail would be prioritised and confirmed that the port authority would upgrade its internal railway tracks to support improved freight operations.
Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to jointly enhancing Karachi Port’s logistics efficiency, calling it vital for strengthening Pakistan’s trade infrastructure and national transport network.
