Pakistan Railways and the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) government have signed a framework agreement to jointly expand and modernize the province’s railway network.
Under the agreement, around 240 kilometers of suburban railway lines will be upgraded across several routes to improve connectivity and facilitate passenger movement.
The proposed routes include Peshawar-Nowshera-Jahangira, Nowshera-Mardan-Dargai, Nowshera-Mardan-Charsadda, Nasirpur (Chamkani)-Jamrud, and Jamrud-Landi Kotal Safari Railway.
The agreement also covers a proposed 192-kilometer strategic rail link from Kohat through Thall to Kharlachi.
The planned connection is expected to strengthen transportation links in the region while creating new opportunities for trade, passenger movement and economic activity.
Federal Minister for Railways Hanif Abbasi said the partnership would improve railway connectivity and modernize passenger facilities across KP.
He added that the initiative would make daily travel easier for citizens and that the federal and provincial governments would explore additional routes and funding options through mutual consultation.
The framework agreement also includes plans to upgrade Peshawar Cantonment, Peshawar City, Nowshera and Jahangira railway stations.
The improvements will focus on passenger facilities, cleanliness and security to provide better services to railway users.
The modernization of these stations is expected to support the broader effort to improve railway infrastructure and passenger experience in the province.
Railway safety was another key issue discussed during the agreement.
Hanif Abbasi urged the KP government to work closely with Pakistan Railways to secure the province’s 81 unsafe railway crossings.
He stressed that improving safety at railway crossings would be essential alongside infrastructure development and expansion.
The agreement marks a significant step toward greater cooperation between the federal and provincial governments for the modernization of Pakistan Railways and expansion of railway services in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
