WEB DESK: Pakistan Railways (PR) is planning to build a 105-kilometre railway line to connect the Thar coal mines with Port Qasim.
According to an official from the Ministry of Railways, the contract for the project has already been awarded, and it is expected to be completed by October 2025.
The official explained that this project is aimed at strengthening the country’s bulk transportation network, aligning with broader economic goals, and easing coal transportation across Pakistan.
The project is a joint effort, funded by both the Sindh and federal governments. The new rail link, from Islamkot to Chhor, will help transport coal more efficiently across the country. This will benefit industries such as cement and textiles by offering a more cost-effective fuel source.
The official added that the construction will also include a 24.58-kilometre loop-line and an 18-kilometre double-track extending from Bin Qasim railway station to Port Qasim. Additionally, 4.20 kilometres of loop-lines will be built to handle large freight volumes.
Once the project is finished, the railway network will be able to transport 10 million tons of coal annually, shifting Pakistan’s power generation from imported coal to local sources.
The project will also introduce seven new railway stations, including two major ones at the Thar coal mines and Chhor, along with five smaller stations to ensure smooth coal transportation.
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