The Sindh Railway revamp has been approved to strengthen rail connectivity between Karachi, Kashmore, and Tharparkar, supporting better transport and regional growth.
Sindh greenlights a major railway overhaul to connect Karachi with Kashmore and Tharparkar.
In a significant infrastructure move, the Sindh government and the federal Ministry of Railways have approved a multi-billion-rupee Sindh railway overhaul plan to modernise the province’s rail network.
The ambitious project aims to enhance rail connectivity from Karachi to Kashmore and Tharparkar, improving transportation and supporting regional development.
A high-level meeting between Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah and Federal Railways Minister Hanif Abbasi led to the decision. The choice signifies an important move towards improving rail transport across Sindh’s vast regions.
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A transformative rail plan includes rehabilitation and the purchase of new trains.
Under the new plan, the provincial government will invest in rehabilitating 858 kilometres of key rail routes and improving track and level crossing safety.
Six new train services will be launched in the first phase, with another six planned in the next phase, providing millions of residents with modern, affordable transportation options.
The initiative also emphasises upgrading 100 of the 308 unmanned railway crossings to safer, manned stations, thereby significantly reducing the risk of accidents.
Boosting Connectivity Across Sindh
By enhancing the Karachi–Kashmore and Karachi–Tharparkar corridors, the overhaul aims to improve travel for commuters, traders, and rural communities that have long faced limited transportation services.
Officials say the project will benefit approximately 37 million people—nearly 67% of Sindh’s population—and help bridge the gap between urban and remote areas by offering city centre-to-city centre rail links.
Infrastructure Upgrades and Economic Impact
The comprehensive plan, estimated at Rs63.26 billion. The plan is designed not only to repair aging railway tracks but also to introduce modern Diesel Multiple Unit (DMU) train sets. Repair and maintain key stations, such as Rohri Railway Station, to ensure a smoother travel experience.
The upgraded railway infrastructure expected to support economic activity by facilitating cargo transport and boosting local commerce in smaller towns and cities along the routes.
Government Collaboration and Long-Term Vision
The Sindh government will cover the costs of the infrastructure overhaul, while Pakistan Railways will provide the necessary right-of-way and approvals.
Federal and provincial leaders described the partnership as a milestone in the revival of Pakistan’s railway system, which historically served as a backbone for connectivity and trade.
Discussions also include a long-term framework agreement to sustain and expand railway projects over the coming decades.
Enhancing Safety and Passenger Experience
Alongside track rehabilitation, the plan includes converting dangerous unmanned crossings into operated ones and introducing improved safety measures—a move welcomed by transport experts.
With new stations and train services, commuters can expect faster, safer, and more reliable travel options, potentially easing road traffic congestion and offering a cost-effective alternative to road transport.
Looking Ahead
As work begins on this ambitious rail overhaul project, officials emphasise its potential to transform Sindh’s transportation landscape.
Enhanced rail connectivity from Karachi to far-flung regions such as Kashmore and Tharparkar will improve mobility and strengthen economic ties.
Encourage tourism and contribute toward broader development goals across the province. (ARY News)