KARACHI: Federal Minister for Railways, Hanif Abbasi, has announced that Pakistan is set to operationalize the railway track to Iran shortly, marking a significant step toward connecting the local rail network with Europe. Speaking at the inauguration ceremony of The International School, established under Pakistan Railways in Karachi, the minister shared a vision for a modernized and globalized railway system. The event was also attended by Governor Sindh, Nihal Hashmi.
Key Infrastructure Projects
Minister Abbasi highlighted major upcoming projects aimed at revamping the aging infrastructure. Describing the 1861-era Rohri-Karachi track as the most challenging, he announced a $2 billion (approx. 700 billion PKR) project to reconstruct the 480 km segment. Furthermore, the railway network will be connected to Thar Coal by December 25, facilitating energy logistics. Restoration work is also being initiated on the 900 km Rohri-Nokundi and the 87 km Nokundi-Taftan sections to streamline the route to the Iranian border.
Outsourcing and Digitalization
In a move to improve efficiency, the minister revealed that the ministry is outsourcing 14 railway schools, Royal Palm, and seven hospitals. “We were on track to digitalize Pakistan Railways by May 28, but due to global circumstances, the system will now become fully operational in another month,” Abbasi stated. He emphasized that these reforms are essential for the survival of the department.
Foreign Policy and Diplomacy
The minister lauded Pakistan’s current standing in international diplomacy, claiming that the country successfully played a role in de-escalating tensions between Saudi Arabia and Iran. “Today, Russia, China, Iran, the US, and Gulf nations are all looking toward Pakistan. Our successful diplomacy prevented two brotherly nations from conflict,” he remarked, adding that the national identity of Pakistanis abroad has never been stronger in the country’s 78-year history.
Karachi Circular Railway (KCR)
Addressing local concerns, Hanif Abbasi clarified the division of labor regarding urban transit. He emphasized that the responsibility for building and maintaining the Karachi Circular Railway (KCR) rests solely with the Government of Sindh. “If the railways don’t run, Pakistan won’t run,” the minister concluded, reiterating his commitment to the vision of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, with whom he has served for 25 years.
