The Sindh and federal governments have approved a major rail-based transport plan aimed at modernizing the province’s railway network and improving city-to-city connectivity for nearly 37 million people.
The plan, which covers 858km across six key corridors, includes upgrading tracks, rehabilitating infrastructure, and launching new train services. Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah announced that Rs. 6.6 billion would be immediately allocated to replace 100 manned railway crossings and fund the first phase of six new trains, with another six to follow.
Key routes to be upgraded include Kotri- Dadu, Dadu- Larkana- Habib Kot, Hyderabad- Mirpurkhas- Marvi, Rohri- Jacobabad, Jacobabad- Kashmore, and Hyderabad–Badin. The project is expected to reduce travel time, with the Kotri- Dadu journey shortened by around 90 minutes.
The total investment of Rs. 63.26 billion will cover infrastructure rehabilitation, procurement of modern Diesel Multiple Unit (DMU) trains, and maintenance facilities. Under the plan, the Sindh government will fund the infrastructure while Pakistan Railways provides the required approvals and right of way.
Rohri Railway Station will also be upgraded with a nearly Rs. 1 billion investment, including renovated platforms, station buildings, escalators, and a solar-powered water filtration system. The upgrades are expected to be completed within six months.
Transport Minister Sharjeel Inam Memon said the project will provide modern, safe, and affordable transport while easing pressure on roads and connecting remote areas of Sindh.
