Railways Minister Hanif Abbasi has announced that Pakistan Railways is set to drastically reduce travel time between Rawalpindi and Lahore to just two hours. This exciting development comes with the introduction of high-speed trains capable of traveling at speeds of up to 160 kilometers per hour.
Faster, More Comfortable Train Travel Across Pakistan
Speaking to the media, Abbasi highlighted that this initiative is part of a larger, ambitious plan to modernize Pakistan Railways. The goal is to provide faster, more comfortable, and efficient train services, making travel easier for passengers across the country. “This development will greatly enhance the connectivity between Rawalpindi and Lahore, two of Pakistan’s major cities, making the journey much more convenient for commuters,” Abbasi stated.
In addition to improving domestic travel, the Railways Minister emphasized that the project aligns with the broader vision of enhancing regional connections and offering passengers more accessible travel options.
New International Freight Train to Boost Trade with Central Asia
In another significant development, Abbasi revealed plans for launching an international freight train that will operate from Lahore to the Iranian border and continue toward Russia. This new route aims to increase trade connectivity with Central Asia, and it could eventually extend to Kazakhstan.
The introduction of this freight route is expected to facilitate easier exports from Pakistan and strengthen trade ties with neighboring regions. “By expanding our freight services, we will not only improve trade routes but also open up new business and job opportunities for our people,” Abbasi said.
These moves to enhance the railway network will support Pakistan’s growing trade with Central Asia and foster closer economic ties with its regional neighbors.
Upgrading Railways for Economic Growth
Abbasi also explained that the government is focusing on upgrading railway tracks, improving train speed, and implementing modern technology to improve the overall passenger experience. These upgrades are expected to generate more revenue for Pakistan Railways while contributing to the country’s economic growth.
The introduction of high-speed trains and new freight routes represents a major milestone for Pakistan Railways and is seen as a significant step forward for the country’s railway infrastructure, creating a brighter future for regional trade and travel.