Sindh Plans Major Modernization of Historic Railway Network
ISLAMABAD: Pakistan Railways is considering a major modernization plan for its network in Sindh, including upgrades to historic railway tracks and the development of Main Line 2 (ML-2) through a proposed public-private partnership.
The plans were reviewed by the Senate Standing Committee on Railways during a meeting at Parliament House on Monday.
The proposed ML-2 project would expand the rail network by approximately 1,254 kilometres and improve connectivity through key routes including Kotri-Dadu, Dadu-Larkana and Hyderabad-Mirpurkhas.
The committee asked the Ministry of Railways to complete a memorandum of understanding with the Sindh government as soon as possible.
Focus on Historic Railway Infrastructure
The committee also directed the railways minister to personally visit Dadu Railway Station, which was constructed in 1890 and features a platform about one kilometre long.
Members stressed the need to protect historic railway infrastructure from further deterioration.
The committee also called for priority restoration of railway bridges damaged by recent heavy rainfall and flooding.
Review of Pakistan Railways Operations
The meeting, chaired by Senator Shahadat Awan, covered operational, financial and administrative matters related to Pakistan Railways.
Members also reviewed the implementation of recommendations issued during earlier committee meetings held on February 25 and May 11, 2026.
Newly inducted committee member Senator Bushra Anjum Butt was formally welcomed during the session.
Railway Commercial Assets Under Review
The committee also examined the management of railway land and commercial assets.
Officials briefed members about 53 petrol pumps operating on railway property. They said the leasing process was being handled under Public Procurement Regulatory Authority rules and relevant standards.
Officials also explained that the rental rate had been increased from 8% to 10% following a policy change in 2023.
The committee directed authorities to review commercial rental rates and ensure that the policy remains consistent with applicable laws.
Pending Investigations Discussed
Members reviewed several pending inquiries involving the National Accountability Bureau and the Federal Investigation Agency that date back to 2021.
The committee expressed concern over delays and directed railway authorities to conduct departmental inquiries, determine responsibility and identify officials named in the relevant reports.
The ministry was also asked to keep the committee informed about progress.
Measures to Control Fuel Theft
Officials told the committee that HSD theft from trains had been brought to zero after introducing a system in which fuel is directly supplied to train engines.
However, the committee raised concerns about reports submitted between July 21, 2025, and July 26, 2026, describing some of them as incomplete.
Members ordered an investigation to be completed within 15 days to determine responsibility for the reporting issues.
Railway Land Recovery Continues
The committee was also briefed on anti-encroachment operations.
According to officials, approximately 376 acres of railway land had been recovered from illegal occupation against a target of more than 13,000 acres.
The committee directed the railway chairman and ministry officials to accelerate the recovery process and submit a detailed progress report within two months.
Compensation Case Also Reviewed
Members discussed a long-running compensation matter involving affected individuals under Case No. 1/2018.
The committee expressed concern over delays in coordination with the Finance Division and instructed authorities to develop legally sound solutions in accordance with court orders.
Officials were also directed to ensure that eligible affected parties receive fair and timely compensation.
Commitment to Transparent Operations
The railways minister assured the committee that future railway operations and commercial transactions would follow applicable laws and transparency requirements.
He said railway land would not be leased arbitrarily and that all transactions would be conducted according to established legal procedures.
The meeting was attended by members of the Senate committee, the railways minister and senior officials from relevant government departments.
