KARACHI: Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah and Federal Railways Minister Hanif Abbasi, during a high-level meeting, agreed to work closely on several projects, including the revival of the Karachi Circular Railway (KCR), removal of encroachments, outsourcing of services, and launching upgraded Karachi–Rohri passenger trains.
CM Murad praised the federal minister’s active role, saying, “After a long time, we are finally seeing Pakistan Railways take ownership.” He regretted that while railways around the world generate profits, Pakistan Railways continues to face losses. He stressed the need for urgent reforms to improve service delivery and efficiency.
Karachi Circular Railway Revival
The meeting focused on the long-delayed revival of the Karachi Circular Railway, which CM Murad termed a necessity for the city.
He suggested that the Sindh government and Pakistan Railways jointly develop the project with support from donor agencies and the private sector.
The original feasibility study was conducted by JICA from 2008 to 2013, and the project was added to the CPEC framework in 2016. A revised feasibility, prepared with China Railway Construction Corporation (CRCC), estimates the cost at $2.002 billion.
The 43-kilometre route will have 24 stations and is expected to serve 650,000 passengers daily, improving east-west and north-south connectivity in Karachi. The updated plan is awaiting approval from Chinese authorities.
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Anti-encroachment operations have so far cleared 11 acres of railway land around Drigh Road, Karachi University, Urdu College, and Gillani stations.
However, challenges remain in areas near Liaquatabad and Urdu College. CM Murad assured continued provincial support for these operations and urban rehabilitation along the KCR route.
New Train Services and Outsourcing
The meeting also discussed outsourcing cleaning and waste management at Karachi Cantt and City Stations to the Sindh Solid Waste Management Board (SSWMB). A formal agreement has already been signed. Washing lines at Cantt Station are also expected to be outsourced.
The Sindh government will assist with the beautification and upgradation of major railway stations. CM Murad highlighted that the provincial government had rebuilt the approach road to Cantt Station in 2018.
Federal Support for Reforms
Minister Hanif Abbasi welcomed the CM’s proposals and assured full federal support. Both sides agreed to form joint teams of experts to finalize details of the KCR revival, outsourcing plans, and new train services.
CM Murad said, “Railways are the backbone of any economy. Reviving KCR and upgrading intercity trains will transform Karachi’s transport system, create economic opportunities, and help Pakistan Railways move towards financial stability.”
