ISLAMABAD: The federal government has approved a modern high-speed rail project connecting Islamabad and Rawalpindi. The service will cut travel time between the twin cities to only 20 minutes.
High-Level Meeting Decision
Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi and Railways Minister Hanif Abbasi chaired a high-level meeting on Monday. Officials agreed to expedite the rail link from Margalla Station in Islamabad to Saddar Station in Rawalpindi.
Project Framework and Management
The Interior Minister and Railways Minister will sign the framework agreement for the project next week. Under the plan, the Ministry of Railways will provide track infrastructure, while the Capital Development Authority (CDA) will manage the service.
Modern Trains for Efficient Service
The government also decided to import state-of-the-art trains. Officials said the move will ensure modern, comfortable, and efficient operations for passengers.
Benefits for Residents
The initiative will save time and fuel, reduce traffic congestion, and provide residents with a fast and affordable transportation option. Authorities highlighted that the project will improve connectivity between the twin cities and ease daily commutes.
Senior Officials Present
Minister of State for Interior Talal Chaudhry, the interior secretary, the secretary of railways, the CDA chairman, the Rawalpindi commissioner, the Islamabad Police Inspector General, and Frontier Corps representatives attended the meeting. Their participation demonstrated broad institutional support for the project.
First Lady Aseefa Bhutto
First Lady Aseefa Bhutto Zardari has praised the launch of Pakistan’s first national campaign to prevent cervical cancer. She described the initiative as a milestone for women’s health. She emphasized that the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine can protect young girls from cervical cancer.
Meanwhile, Aseefa urged parents nationwide to vaccinate their daughters aged between 9 and 14 years. She reminded families that cervical cancer remains the only form of cancer fully preventable through vaccination. Furthermore, she appealed to schools and communities to support this vital public health initiative.
“This campaign secures a healthier future for our daughters,” she declared. She stressed that collective support will ensure the program’s success.
