Sindh Rail Network Overhaul Approved After Federal–Provincial Consensus

The Sindh government and federal authorities have formally advanced the Sindh Railway Network Overhaul after reaching a key agreement. During a meeting at the Chief Minister’s House, Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah and Federal Minister for Railways Hanif Abbasi reviewed the long-standing need to modernize rail transport across the province. Officials have described the project as a multi-billion-rupee initiative aimed at restoring public confidence in rail travel.

The overhaul focuses on rebuilding aging infrastructure and expanding passenger services in a structured manner. Provincial officials emphasized that they will release the funds immediately to prevent delays and ensure that construction and rehabilitation work begins without administrative hurdles.

• Joint planning between Sindh and the federal government
• Immediate release of development funds
• Focus on long-term rail sustainability

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Karachi–Kashmore and Karachi–Tharparkar as Priority Corridors

Under the Sindh Railway Network Overhaul, authorities will begin initial work on the Karachi–Kashmore and Karachi–Tharparkar corridors. These routes play a vital role in linking Karachi with northern and eastern Sindh, where limited rail options have forced heavy reliance on road transport. By reviving these corridors, the project aims to reduce travel pressure on highways.

Officials noted that upgrading these lines will improve access for remote districts and support trade and mobility. The corridors will also help link industrial zones with agricultural regions, streamlining movement across the province.

• Early focus on high-impact corridors
• Improved connectivity for remote districts
• Reduced dependence on road transport

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Phased Passenger Train Launch Under Sindh Rail Network Overhaul

Passenger services are a central feature of the Sindh Railway Network Overhaul. The provincial government plans to introduce train operations in two phases to manage costs and operations efficiently. In the first phase, six passenger trains will be launched, followed by six additional trains in the second phase.

This gradual rollout allows authorities to assess demand, operational challenges, and service quality before full expansion. Officials believe this approach will ensure smoother implementation and better public response.

• Two-phase passenger service strategy
• Six trains per phase
• Gradual service expansion model

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858 Kilometres of Track Rehabilitation Across Sindh

A major component of the Sindh Railway Network Overhaul is the rehabilitation of approximately 858 kilometres of railway track across six routes. These routes include Kotri–Dadu, Dadu–Larkana–Habib Kot, Hyderabad–Mirpurkhas–Marvi, Rohri–Jacobabad, Jacobabad–Kashmore Colony, and Hyderabad–Badin. Each route has been selected based on population needs and existing infrastructure conditions.

• Total track length: 858 km
• Six priority routes selected
• Reduced travel time and delays

Project Cost and Investment Breakdown

The overall cost of the Sindh Railway Network Overhaul has been estimated at Rs63.26 billion. This investment covers infrastructure rehabilitation, procurement of new train sets, and long-term maintenance facilities. Authorities believe that this balanced allocation will help ensure service reliability after the project’s completion.

• Total estimated cost: Rs63.26 billion
• Emphasis on infrastructure and rolling stock
• Dedicated maintenance allocation

Suburban Rail Vision for 37 Million Residents

The Sindh Railway Network Overhaul includes a suburban rail concept designed to offer city-center to city-center connectivity. Officials believe this model could serve nearly 37 million residents by providing affordable and predictable travel options within and between urban centers.

This approach is intended to complement existing transport systems rather than replace them. By offering reliable rail alternatives, authorities expect a gradual shift away from congested roads.

• City-center to city-center connectivity
• Target population of 37 million
• Support for urban mobility needs

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Railway Crossing Safety and Risk Reduction Plan

Safety improvements are a key pillar of the Sindh Rail Network Overhaul. A separate Rs6 billion program has been approved to convert 308 high-risk, unmanned railway crossings into manned crossings. This move aims to reduce accidents involving vehicles and pedestrians.

Officials emphasized that improving safety is crucial to regaining public trust in rail travel. Manned crossings will provide better control and monitoring, particularly in densely populated or high-traffic areas.

• 308 unmanned crossings to be upgraded
• Rs6 billion safety allocation
• Focus on accident reduction

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Rohri Railway Station Upgrade Within Six Months

The Sindh Rail Network Overhaul also includes a near Rs1 billion upgrade of Rohri Railway Station. Planned improvements include refurbished platforms, renovated station buildings, six escalators, and a solar-powered water filtration plant to support sustainability.

The upgrade is expected to be completed within six months, improving passenger experience and station efficiency. Officials see Rohri as a key junction that reflects the broader modernization goals of the project.

• Rs1 billion station upgrade
• Six escalators and platform renovation
• Sustainable water facilities

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Long-Term Impact of Sindh Rail Network Overhaul

The broader goal of the Sindh Railway Network Overhaul is to connect underserved regions through affordable, safe, and reliable rail services. By expanding access to rail transport, the government aims to support economic growth and regional balance.

Easing road congestion is another expected benefit, as more passengers shift to trains for daily and intercity travel. Officials believe the project will play a lasting role in Sindh’s transport development.

• Improved regional connectivity
• Reduced road congestion
• Support for economic activity

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FAQs

What is the total cost of the Sindh Rail Network Overhaul?
The project is estimated at Rs63.26 billion, covering infrastructure, trains, and maintenance.

Which routes will be upgraded first?
Initial work will focus on the Karachi–Kashmore and Karachi–Tharparkar corridors.

How many passenger trains will be introduced?
A total of 12 trains will be launched in two phases, with six trains in each phase.

What safety measures are included in the project?
A Rs6 billion program will convert 308 unmanned crossings into manned crossings.

When will the Rohri Railway Station upgrades be completed?
The station upgrade is expected to be finished within six months.

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