Islamabad–Rawalpindi High-Speed Rail Link to Launch on March 23
The federal government has approved plans to launch a high-speed rail service between Islamabad and Rawalpindi, aimed at reducing travel time, easing traffic congestion, and offering residents of the twin cities a more affordable commuting option.
Service Details
According to officials, the service will begin on March 23, initially operating on the existing railway track. The route will connect Margalla Railway Station in Islamabad to Saddar Railway Station in Rawalpindi, cutting the journey time to just 20 minutes.
Project Planning
The decision was finalized in a high-level meeting chaired by Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi and Railway Minister Hanif Abbasi at the Capital Development Authority (CDA) headquarters. Minister of State for Interior Talal Chaudhry and senior representatives from Pakistan Railways, CDA, and law enforcement agencies also attended.
Railway Minister Abbasi confirmed that the project will utilize modern Diesel Multiple Units (DMUs), expected to be imported within the next month. The formal PC-I of the project will be submitted to the Planning Division soon.
Connectivity and Operations
To enhance accessibility, CDA’s electric buses will serve as feeder services to Margalla Station, while the existing Metro Bus network will also integrate with the new system. Under the plan, Pakistan Railways will maintain the track infrastructure, while CDA will manage operations. A framework agreement is expected to be signed next week.
