Railways, Asian Development Bank hold ML-1 consultation

Pakistan Railways, with Asian Development Bank backing, wrapped up its second pre-market meeting for the Karachi-Rohri part of the Main Line-1 upgrade on Tuesday, Dawn reported. Some 134 participants attended, among them domestic and foreign contractors, consultants, equipment suppliers and manufacturers.

The federal government treats the Karachi-Rohri stretch as a priority, and preparations are being accelerated under Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif to modernise rail infrastructure. A railways spokesperson said attendees gave views on several aspects of the project, feedback that is expected to inform the procurement approach. He also hoped for ongoing dialogue with the market to support a competitive and transparent tender process.

Civil works on the $2.5 billion first phase are likely to start in January 2027, covering 480 km from Karachi-Rohri to Sukkur with new up and down tracks and fencing on both sides. Completion is projected within two to three years, and the corridor carries 76 per cent of passenger traffic and 98 per cent of freight. Asian Development Bank financing is anticipated, with AIIB, EIN, the World Bank and IsDB being considered for co-financing.