ISLAMABAD: Pakistan Railway’s Chairman Syed Mazhar Ali Shah instructed that the review process of the ML-1 Project should be completed by October 30, 2026. Furthermore, he issued directions that progress on this initiative should be regularly reviewed every week. The decision will ensure continuous monitoring of the implementation process of one of the most important railway infrastructure projects within the country.
Directions Issued During Detailed ML-1 Project Review Meeting
The guidelines were announced by Shah when chairing a special meeting regarding the ML-1 project, where all aspects related to the improvement of the Karachi-Rohri route were discussed in depth. The meeting also touched upon several other important aspects of the project including planning, implementation, and what needs to be done in the coming period to move ahead smoothly.
In a recent development, the decision was taken at the meeting that Phase 2 consultations regarding ML-1 would begin from September 8, 2026. It is important to mention here that these consultations would be held after thorough consultations with market experts and stakeholders, and will cover various aspects related to this project.
In his statement, Shah clarified that the plans for the ML-1 railway project will incorporate suggestions from the marketplace, international precedents, and expert views in order to enhance its effectiveness, efficiency, and viability. Additionally, merit, transparency, and competitiveness will be ensured throughout all stages of the project, indicating both procedural improvements alongside technological advancements.
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Abbasi said that he had received a full update regarding his meeting and was satisfied with the achievements on the ML-1 railway track. The minister stated that ML-1 is the basis for developing Pakistan Railways and catering to its future transport needs. "ML-1 will help enhance train speed and provide world-class amenities to passengers," he added. It is pertinent to mention here that Abbasi holds a key portfolio in Pakistan Railways.
The Federal Minister added that the ML-1 Project will definitely benefit from all the sound recommendations received via consultations and will be implemented accordingly, adding that merit, transparency, and competitiveness continue to be cardinal principles of this major initiative and cannot be compromised under any circumstances.
Consultations have been going on for months to gather the best inputs for the successful implementation of this massive railway project.
As per information provided by Muhammad Hanif Abbasi, the PM Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif has taken great personal interest in the ML-1 project and ordered that the project should be completed within the designated timeline. Such involvement highlights the significance being accorded by the government in keeping the ML-1 project on track, with 30 October 2023 representing an important initial checkpoint in terms of assessing progress.