Pakistan unveils $10 billion Kohat–Uzbekistan rail link, launches major modernization drive

FAISALABAD – Pakistan will invest $10 billion to construct an 850-kilometer railway line from Kohat to Mazar-i-Sharif, with a 75-kilometer link to Uzbekistan, Federal Minister for Railways Hanif Abbasi confirmed during a visit to Faisalabad Railway Station on Saturday.

The project is part of a nationwide railway modernization initiative that includes digitalization, station upgrades, new diesel multiple unit (DMU) trains, and increased private sector involvement. Abbasi said the plan aligns with the prime minister’s vision to promote regional connectivity and improve passenger facilities.

Key upgrades include automated ticketing, a live train tracking system, ATMs at major stations, and WiFi access at 40 stations in Punjab under a partnership with CM Maryam Nawaz. The service rollout began in Lahore and will extend to Karachi, Hyderabad, and Faisalabad.

By September 30, Pakistan Railways will outsource operations for up to 11 passenger and freight trains, along with rest houses, saloons, hospitals, and schools. The Punjab government has committed Rs. 50 billion to improve eight routes, while Rs. 250 billion will fund a high-speed double track between Lahore and Rawalpindi, cutting travel time by over two hours.

Infrastructure projects also include a Rs. 2.35 billion linear park from Shahdara to Raiwind, station upgrades in major cities, and a new track to Thar Coal by April next year to lower electricity costs. The Reko Diq rail link is expected by 2028.

Feasibility work for the Sibi–Rohri and Rohri–Karachi sections will be completed in coming months, with construction slated for mid-2026. Under the Track Access Fee policy, private operators can now run their own trains, boosting competition and service quality.

Faisalabad’s upgraded station, supported by industrialists, will serve 8,000–10,000 passengers daily, reinforcing its role as a key economic hub.