Federal, KP Governments Sign Rail Partnership Deal
ISLAMABAD, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 25th Aug, 2026)
Federal Minister for Railways Muhammad Hanif Abbasi stated on Tuesday that a framework agreement between the federal government and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa would pave the way for upgrading approximately 240 kilometers of suburban railway lines and constructing a 192-kilometer strategic rail link from Kohat through Thall to Kharlachi. This development aims to strengthen connectivity, trade, and passenger services in the province, aligning with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s vision to modernize Pakistan Railways.
During the signing ceremony, Mr. Abbasi expressed gratitude to the KP government and Chief Minister for their collaboration in transforming the framework agreement into a practical partnership between the federation and the province. He described this as a significant step towards enhancing federal-provincial cooperation and propelling Pakistan Railways into a new era of development, rehabilitation, and modernization.
The minister highlighted that this agreement is the first of its kind in the 79-year history of Pakistan Railways, marking stronger federal-provincial partnerships for railway development. He noted that Punjab, Sindh, Balochistan, and KP are collaborating with Pakistan Railways on projects focusing on infrastructure, passenger facilities, connectivity, and safety. This federal-provincial partnership is set to usher in a new chapter in the nation's railway system.
Under the agreement:
- Approximately 240 kilometers of suburban railway lines in KP will be upgraded.
- Projects include the 62-kilometer Peshawar-Nowshera-Jahangira, 65-kilometer Nowshera-Mardan-Dargai, 51-kilometer Nowshera-Mardan-Charsadda, 30-kilometer Nasirpur (Chamkani)-Jamrud, and 32-kilometer Jamrud-Landi Kotal Safari Railway routes.
- A 192-kilometer new strategic railway line from Kohat through Thall to Kharlachi is also proposed, fostering regional connectivity and trade opportunities with Central Asian states.
Mr. Abbasi emphasized that these projects will enhance connectivity within KP, modernize passenger facilities, and streamline daily commuting for residents. He further stated that additional routes and alignments will be explored based on need and mutual consultation, with joint exploration of funding options for new routes.