QUETTA: Pakistan Railways has announced to upgrade a 600-kilometer railway track from Nokundi in Chagai to Sibi district of Balochistan.
According to reports, the project is expected to be completed within three years, by 2028 with an estimated cost of $360 million.
During an interview with the private news channel, Divisional Superintendent of Railways, Imran Hayat Khan, said that the decision was made in view of the strategic importance of the Reko Diq mining project, which is located in the same region.
He further said that the new railway lines will be imported from abroad to replace the existing 607-km-long Nokundi–Sibi track. The financing for the project will be secured through a loan from the Asian Development Bank (ADB).
Regarding the Quetta–Taftan railway line, which is over 100 years old, is in a deteriorated condition, Imran Hayat Khan said that the Quetta – Taftan line also requires attention for future development needs.
ALSO READ: Jaffer Express balances beauty and danger on Pakistan’s toughest rail route
This rail upgrade is expected to play a key role in improving regional connectivity and supporting major economic initiatives, especially in the mineral-rich areas of Balochistan.
