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Ahsan Iqbal Calls for Complete ML-1 Modernisation
ULANBAATAR, Mongolia: Planning Minister Ahsan Iqbal has called for the complete modernisation of Pakistan Railways’ Main Line-1 (ML-1), describing the project as a key priority for expanding freight capacity, increasing trade and improving regional connectivity.
He made the remarks while addressing a development partners dialogue on “Advancing Trade, Tourism and Regional Competitiveness” in Mongolia.
ML-1 Backbone of Railway Network
Iqbal briefed development partners on Pakistan’s ML-1 modernisation plan and progress on the Karachi-Rohri section.
He said ML-1 stretches 1,726 kilometres from Karachi to Peshawar and carries around 76% of passenger traffic and 98% of freight traffic despite existing infrastructure limitations.
The minister described the corridor’s modernisation as an important economic project linked to Pakistan’s trade and growth potential.
Capacity to Increase Significantly
According to Iqbal, the proposed upgrade would increase ML-1’s capacity from 34 to 120 train pairs.
Passenger trains would be able to travel at speeds of up to 160 kilometres per hour, while freight train speeds could increase from around 30km per hour to 80km per hour.
The Karachi-Rohri journey time is also expected to fall from approximately eight hours to four and a half hours.
Freight Capacity to Meet Future Demand
The upgraded railway corridor would be designed to accommodate increasing freight demand, which is projected to reach around 21 million tonnes annually by 2035.
Iqbal said the improved infrastructure would help Pakistan handle growing passenger and freight requirements while supporting trade and regional connectivity.
Karachi-Rohri Section Estimated at $2.5 Billion
The minister said the Karachi-Rohri section, estimated to cost approximately $2.5 billion, is currently the most advanced component of the ML-1 modernisation project.
The Asian Development Bank (ADB) is leading the financing effort, while the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank, World Bank, Islamic Development Bank and European Investment Bank are involved as potential co-financing partners.
Project Moves Towards Implementation
Iqbal said the project had moved beyond the conceptual stage, with project-readiness financing secured and engineering work undertaken.
Procurement and financing processes are also advancing, according to the minister.
He stressed that Karachi-Rohri should not be treated as a standalone project but as the first stage of the complete modernisation of the Karachi-Peshawar corridor.
Financing Plan for Remaining Sections
The government is also working on financing arrangements for the remaining sections between Rohri and Peshawar, Iqbal said.
He emphasised that the focus should now be on implementation, continuity of financing and completing ML-1 as an integrated railway corridor.
Regional Connectivity in Focus
During his three-day visit to Mongolia for the CAREC International Conference, Iqbal also held meetings with the CAREC Institute and a delegation from Uzbekistan.
His participation focused on infrastructure, trade, tourism and regional connectivity initiatives aimed at expanding economic opportunities across the region.
