ADB reviews progress on ML-I rail upgradation
The Railways Division submitted the ML-I project summary to ECNEC without arranging finances from the Public Sector Development Programme, China, or any other international financial institution. Photo: AFP
A delegation of the Asian Development Bank (ADB), led by Director General Leah Gutierrez, on Friday called on Federal Minister for Railways Muhammad Hanif Abbasi to review progress on the upgradation of Main Line-I (ML-I), Pakistan Railways' most critical infrastructure project.
During the meeting, detailed discussions were held on the scope, financing and implementation strategy of the ML-I upgradation, according to a news release.
Officials briefed the meeting that ML-I serves as the backbone of Pakistan Railways, facilitating nearly 80% of passenger traffic and around 90% of freight movement across the country.
In view of the current condition of railway infrastructure, participants underscored the urgent need to upgrade ML-I to ensure safe, efficient and reliable rail operations.
The project is expected to significantly enhance connectivity, reduce travel time and strengthen Pakistan's logistics and trade capacity.
Hanif Abbasi described ML-I as a key project for the national economy, saying its modernisation would play a vital role in promoting economic growth, improving regional connectivity and ensuring sustainable transport.
The ADB delegation reaffirmed its continued cooperation and confidence in the progress of the ML-I project and expressed its commitment to supporting Pakistan Railways in its reform and modernisation efforts.
Both sides also agreed that the ground-breaking ceremony of the ML-I Karachi-to-Rohri section would be held in July 2026, marking a major milestone in the execution of the project.