Pakistan Railways has unveiled an ambitious plan to restore long-dormant routes and expand rail connectivity across the country, aiming to strengthen regional trade, passenger travel and industrial transport.

According to official documents reviewed by WealthPK, the Sibi–Harnai section — closed since 2006 — has already been restored.

The ministry has also completed feasibility studies for seven additional routes: Mari Indus-Lakki Marwat-Bannu, Mandra-Bhaun, Faisalabad-Jaranwala, Fort Abbas-Katal Amara, Tando Adam-Tharu Shah, Mirpur Khas-Nawabshah, and Bostan-Zhob.

In addition to restoration, new projects are being planned, including a rail link connecting Thar Coal Mines to Chhor station to boost industrial and energy sector logistics.

A senior official said the ministry is closely monitoring route performance, market demand and operational feasibility.

“Future decisions on passenger and freight expansions will be made strategically, aligned with national logistics priorities,” the official said.

To meet rising industrial demand, Pakistan Railways is also finalising the outsourcing of 200 freight wagons to the private sector.

In the past, the department has maintained extensive freight services, including cargo express trains between Karachi and Lahore, Kundian-Quetta-Taftan operations, container services to Prem Nagar and Qila Sattar Shah, and oil and cargo transport linking major industrial hubs.

Cross-border rail connectivity is another focus. A feasibility study for linking Afghanistan through the Kohat-Thal-Kharlachi route has been completed, with land acquisition underway.

Work is also progressing on advisory services and land acquisition for new rail corridors connecting Gwadar to Nok Kundi, Gwadar to Mastung via Besima, and Besima (Zero Point) to Jacobabad via Khuzdar.

Officials said Pakistan Railways is undergoing its most transformative phase in decades, with reforms centred on three pillars: maximising public-private partnerships, expanding outsourcing, and ensuring transparency.