The federal government has finalized plans to launch the Islamabad Rawalpindi high-speed rail on March 23, 2025. This ambitious project is designed to reduce travel time between the twin cities, relieve road congestion, and provide a cost-effective public transport solution.
In its initial phase, the service will run on the existing railway track, connecting Margalla Railway Station in Islamabad with Saddar Railway Station in Rawalpindi. Commuters will be able to complete the journey in just 20 minutes, a major improvement compared to road travel, which often takes up to an hour due to traffic jams.
Key Details of the Islamabad–Rawalpindi High-Speed Rail
- Launch Date: March 23, 2025
- Route: Margalla Railway Station (Islamabad) – Saddar Railway Station (Rawalpindi)
- Travel Time: Approximately 20 minutes
- Objective: Reduce traffic congestion and provide affordable mass transit
- Phase 1: Use of existing railway track with potential for upgrades in future
High-Level Government Meeting Finalized the Project
The decision to launch the rail service was made at a meeting held at the Capital Development Authority (CDA) headquarters.
The session was co-chaired by Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi and Railways Minister Hanif Abbasi, with participation from Minister of State for Interior Talal Chaudhry, senior officials from Pakistan Railways, the CDA, the Rawalpindi Commissioner’s Office, and representatives from law enforcement agencies.
Officials emphasized that this project will:
- Reduce commuting costs for daily travelers
- Ease road congestion between the twin cities
- Support sustainable urban mobility by promoting public transport
Future Expansion Plans
While the initial phase of the Islamabad Rawalpindi high-speed rail relies on existing tracks, authorities have hinted at future upgrades. These may include:
- Dedicated high-speed rail lines
- Modern stations and improved facilities
- Integration with metro and bus rapid transit systems
Such improvements would make the rail line a backbone of mass transit in the region.
Why the High-Speed Rail Matters?
The Islamabad–Rawalpindi route is one of Pakistan’s busiest commuter corridors. With the population of the twin cities continuing to grow, the new service is expected to benefit:
- Office workers commuting daily
- Students traveling between universities and colleges
- Business commuters needing fast and reliable transport
By offering an affordable, fast, and sustainable alternative to road travel, the Islamabad Rawalpindi high-speed rail represents a significant step toward modern urban transport solutions in Pakistan.
Disclaimer
The information provided in this article about the Islamabad–Rawalpindi high-speed rail project is based on official announcements and available sources at the time of writing. Project details such as launch date, route, and operational features are subject to change by the government and relevant authorities. Readers are advised to verify updates from Pakistan Railways and the Ministry of Railways for the latest and most accurate information.
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