Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif inaugurated the upgraded Shalimar Express and modernised facilities at Karachi Cantt Railway Station. He emphasised that digitisation and enhanced services in Pakistan Railways will strengthen the national economy. The ceremony marked a key step in the federal government’s plan to modernise the railway network across the country.
Upgraded Stations and Enhanced Passenger Facilities
During his visit, the prime minister toured the newly renovated waiting areas, CIP lounge, dining hall, and computerised ticketing system at Karachi Cantt. Accompanied by federal ministers, senior railway officials, and the railways police chief, he highlighted the importance of providing modern facilities to passengers. Foreign diplomats, parliamentarians, and provincial officials also attended the event.
Shehbaz Sharif noted that Railways Minister Hanif Abbasi had led efforts to modernise the railway system, starting with Lahore Railway Station and now extending to Karachi Cantt. He stated that all stations in Sindh and nationwide will be upgraded with support from provincial governments to ensure better travel experiences for passengers.
Shalimar Express: A New Standard in Rail Travel
The Shalimar Express running between Karachi and Lahore has been fully revamped. The prime minister described Karachi as both the economic hub and “the heart of Pakistan,” emphasising that modern trains and stations contribute to economic growth. He reiterated that collaboration with Punjab, Sindh, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and Balochistan governments will continue to enhance the railway network.
Plans also include extending the network to Central Asia and reviving the Islamabad–Istanbul rail route. Additionally, discussions with the Asian Development Bank are underway for a $2 billion loan to further improve Pakistan Railways.
Federal-Provincial Cooperation and Future Projects
CM Murad Ali Shah welcomed the prime minister to Karachi and reaffirmed provincial cooperation. Shehbaz Sharif confirmed support for integrating the Karachi Circular Railway (KCR) into the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor project. The PM highlighted that 154 stations have already been modernised and praised Abbasi’s leadership, promising a presidential award for him after completing all upgrades.
Abbasi stated that significant improvements were achieved in just eight months, including Shalimar Express renewal and Karachi Cantt Station modernisation. He added that Rs1 billion is allocated for upgrading Rohri Station, while work continues at Karachi City Station. The minister also mentioned outsourcing 14 trains, transferring railway hospitals and schools to private administration, and ongoing ML-1 project development.
The inauguration reflects Pakistan Railways’ commitment to modernisation and improved passenger experiences, signalling a new era of railway infrastructure development nationwide.
