K-P plans modern train services

PESHAWAR:

The Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa government has decided to run modern train services on various railway tracks across the province, including the proposed Kohat–Kharlachi rail link.

The decision was taken at an important meeting on railway affairs chaired by Chief Minister Sohail Afridi at the K-P House in Islamabad.

During the meeting, detailed deliberations were held on the Kohat–Kharlachi railway project, and officials were informed that a new 192-kilometre-long railway track would be laid under the plan. The project is estimated to cost $642 million and is expected to be completed within two years. The meeting was further briefed that the feasibility study of the project has already been completed, while the process of land acquisition is currently underway.

The chief minister said that the Kohat–Kharlachi train service is a pressing need of the time, adding that the project would not only improve travel facilities for the public but also promote trade and commercial activities in the region.

The meeting also discussed in detail the proposal to operate a safari train on the 32-kilometre Jamrud–Landi Kotal railway track. The chief minister directed the concerned authorities to prepare comprehensive plans with clear timelines for railway projects and to take steps for launching train services in other major cities of the province as well.

It was agreed during the meeting to enhance cooperation and coordination between the K-P government and Pakistan Railways, with a renewed commitment to work for public convenience. Addressing the meeting, the chief minister assured full support to Pakistan Railways in the best interest of the people of the province.