ISLAMABAD: The federal government has taken steps to launch a high-speed rail service connecting Islamabad and Rawalpindi, aiming to reduce travel time, ease traffic congestion, and provide affordable transport for residents of the twin cities.
A high-level meeting was held at the Capital Development Authority (CDA) headquarters, chaired by Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi and Railway Minister Hanif Abbasi. Minister of State for Interior Talal Chaudhry and senior officials from the interior ministry, Pakistan Railways, CDA, Rawalpindi Commissioner’s Office, and law enforcement agencies also attended.
According to an interior ministry press release, the rail link will connect Margalla Railway Station in Islamabad with Saddar Railway Station in Rawalpindi, covering the distance in just 20 minutes. The project is expected to launch on March 23, 2025, with the first phase using the existing railway track. A second phase will extend services to other parts of the capital.
Railway Minister Hanif Abbasi said modern Diesel Multiple Units (DMUs) will be imported from China or other countries for the service.
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The railway ministry will provide and maintain the track infrastructure, while the CDA will manage operations. CDA electric buses and existing metro bus services will act as feeder services to Margalla Station. The formal PC-I of the project will be presented to the Planning Division soon.
Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi said the project reflects Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s vision of public-focused development and modern infrastructure. Railway Minister Hanif Abbasi called it a milestone in public welfare, while Minister of State Talal Chaudhry said it will provide a low-cost, high-speed option to ease traffic pressure.
The idea of a rail link between the twin cities dates back to the early 2000s during former President Pervez Musharraf’s tenure.
Earlier proposals included routes from Chaklala to Margalla Station and along the Islamabad Expressway. The 2014 Metro Bus route between Saddar and Faizabad was also partially aimed at supporting future rail connectivity.
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A meeting chaired by Railway Minister Hanif Abbasi decided to implement gender-responsive protocols at stations and on trains, including awareness campaigns, announcements, posters, and staff training.
Refurbished trains will include designated seating for persons with special abilities, and wheelchairs will be available at major stations.
Abbasi said, “Pakistan Railways values all passengers. These initiatives show our commitment to a modern, inclusive, and passenger-friendly railway system.”
