Pak, China agree to upgrade ‘Karachi-Torkham’ rail track

BEJING: Pakistan and China have agreed to upgrade and dualize Pakistan railway’s main line (ML-1) which is from Karachi to Torkham and after up-gradation it would support to run fast moving trains.

Minister for Interior and Planning, Development & Reform, Ahsan Iqbal expressed these views while meeting with Meng Fengchao, Chairman China Railway Construction Corporation here on Wednesday.

First phase of the project is expected to hit the ground this year. The up gradation of the ML1 would not only improve existing railway infrastructure but would double the current speed, facilitating.

“China Railway Corporation should utilize existing industrial base and local production capabilities in railways and infrastructure projects”, the minister maintained.

China Railway Construction Corporation guaranteed to work in collaboration with the local institutions and organizations.

CPEC become one of top regional cooperation projects in world: Ahsan Iqbal

Earlier, addressing CEO’s Forum at Boao Forum in China, Ahsan Iqbal on Monday said that CPEC is proving to be oxygen for Pakistan as the country’s economic growth increased due to huge investment being made in infrastructure and energy sector under the mega project.

There is broad consensus among all groups and political parties in the country to ensure success of CPEC, he added.

Under CPEC, nine industrial zones were being constructed across the country which will create numerous new jobs, he added.