Planned July 2026 Start for ML-1: Karachi-Lahore-Peshawar Mainline 1 Upgrade

Pakistan Railways is reportedly planning to commence construction in July 2026 on the ML-1 project, a 1,700-kilometer corridor connecting Karachi, Lahore and Peshawar. The project is estimated at about $7 billion and is to be funded by a CPEC-led consortium with the Asian Development Bank. The scope includes laying new tracks, building bridges, and deploying a modern signaling system designed to support high-speed rail operations, increased capacity, and reduced travel times. Once completed, ML-1 is expected to transform passenger and freight services, spur economic growth along the corridor, and contribute to broader infrastructure modernization in Pakistan. The timeline and financing are subject to approvals, procurement, and coordination with related rail initiatives, as well as environmental and social impact assessments.

Source: Statement from @SubhanJaved911

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Published: April 27, 2026, 9:09 pm