LAHORE: Chairman Pakistan Railways, Syed Mazhar Ali Shah has directed that the review phase of the ML-1 project be completed by October 30, 2026. He also directed that the progress of the project be continuously monitored and reviewed on a weekly basis.
He passed these direction while presiding over a meeting regarding the ML-1 project and reviewed in detail various matters related to the upgradation of the Karachi-Rohri section. Discussions were also held on the project’s preparation, progress, and future course of action.
It was also decided that the second phase of market consultation for the ML-1 project will commence on September 8, 2026. The second phase will include detailed consultations with market experts and relevant stakeholders on project preparation, technical matters, and the way forward.
He said that Pakistan Railways would benefit from market proposals, international experience, and expert opinions to make the ML-1 project more effective, modern, and viable. The principles of merit, transparency, and competitiveness will be ensured at every stage of the project’s preparation and implementation it was further decided.
After the meeting, Federal Minister for Railways Muhammad Hanif Abbasi was briefed and he expressed satisfaction over the progress on the ML-1 project and said that ML-1 is the foundation for the development and modernization of Pakistan Railways and for meeting future requirements. The upgradation of the project will significantly improve train speeds, passenger facilities, and the overall performance of Pakistan Railways.
The Federal Minister further said that the ML-1 project would be further strengthened and made more effective in light of the best proposals and expert opinions. He emphasized that merit, transparency, and competitiveness are of fundamental importance to the project and that there would be no compromise on these principles.
Muhammad Hanif Abbasi said that Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif is taking a keen interest in the ML-1 project and has directed that it be completed within the stipulated timeframe.
Copyright Business Recorder, 2026
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