Main Line-2 Project to Expand Rail Links Across Sindh as Senate Committee Pushes for Faster Development
Pakistan Railways is preparing a major modernisation drive focused on upgrading historic railway infrastructure and expanding connectivity in Sindh, as lawmakers reviewed a comprehensive development plan for the country’s rail network.
The Senate Standing Committee on Railways discussed several proposals, including the rehabilitation of old railway tracks, restoration of damaged bridges and a public-private partnership model for the Main Line-2 (ML-2) project.
The meeting was held at Parliament House in Islamabad under the chairmanship of Senator Shahadat Awan, where committee members reviewed operational, financial and administrative matters related to Pakistan Railways.
ML-2 Project to Add 1,254 Kilometres of Railway Links
A major focus of the meeting was the proposed ML-2 project, which aims to expand and improve railway connectivity in Sindh.
The project will cover approximately 1,254 kilometres of railway routes and is expected to strengthen transportation links through key sections, including:
- Kotri–Dadu railway link
- Dadu–Larkana connection
- Hyderabad–Mirpurkhas route
The committee directed the Ministry of Railways to complete the memorandum of understanding with the Sindh government at the earliest to move the project forward.
Lawmakers said improving railway connectivity in Sindh would support passenger movement, trade activities and regional economic development.
Historic Dadu Railway Station Requires Immediate Attention
During the meeting, the committee highlighted concerns regarding the condition of the historic Dadu Railway Station.
Built in 1890, the station is considered an important part of Pakistan’s railway heritage and features a one-kilometre-long platform.
The committee directed the Railways Minister to personally visit the station and assess its condition to prevent further damage and deterioration.
Members stressed that historical railway assets should be preserved while modernisation projects continue.
Flood-Damaged Bridges to Be Repaired
The committee also directed Pakistan Railways to prioritise the restoration of railway bridges damaged by recent heavy rains and flooding.
Members said damaged infrastructure could disrupt train operations and affect connectivity between different regions.
Officials were instructed to accelerate repair work and ensure that railway services remain safe and reliable.
Committee Reviews Railway Land and Commercial Assets
A significant portion of the meeting focused on railway-owned land, commercial assets and leasing policies.
Officials briefed the committee about 53 petrol pumps operating on railway property, stating that their agreements were being managed according to Public Procurement Regulatory Authority (PPRA) rules and existing regulations.
Officials informed lawmakers that rental rates for railway properties had been increased from 8 percent to 10 percent following a policy revision in 2023.
However, the committee directed authorities to ensure that rental policies comply with legal requirements and ordered a fresh review of commercial rents.
Concerns Raised Over Pending Investigations
The committee also examined pending inquiries involving the National Accountability Bureau (NAB) and the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA), some of which date back to 2021.
Expressing concern over delays, members instructed railway officials to conduct internal departmental investigations, determine responsibility and identify individuals mentioned in inquiry reports.
The ministry was directed to regularly update the committee on progress.
Fuel Theft Reduced, But Committee Questions Reports
Officials informed the committee that high-speed diesel (HSD) theft in railway operations had been eliminated after introducing a direct fuel injection system for train engines.
However, lawmakers expressed dissatisfaction over incomplete and misleading reports submitted between July 21, 2025, and July 26, 2026.
The committee ordered a 15-day investigation against officials responsible for preparing and submitting the reports.
Railways Recovers Hundreds of Acres From Encroachers
The committee was also briefed on anti-encroachment operations involving railway land.
Officials said Pakistan Railways had recovered 376 acres of land from illegal occupation as part of a larger campaign targeting more than 13,000 acres.
The committee directed the Railways Ministry and chairman to speed up the recovery drive and submit a detailed progress report within two months.
Minister Promises Transparency in Railway Operations
The Railways Minister assured lawmakers that future operations would be conducted with complete transparency.
He said no individual or department would be allowed to lease railway land without following legal procedures.
The minister added that all future transactions involving railway assets would be carried out according to government rules and regulations.
The meeting was attended by Railways Minister, Senators Dost Ali Jeesa, Bushra Anjum Butt and senior officials from relevant departments.
The modernisation plans are expected to play a key role in upgrading Pakistan’s ageing railway infrastructure and improving transport links across Sindh and other parts of the country.
