Pakistan’s First Bullet Train Route Announced, Karachi to Lahore in 5 Hours
Pakistan Railways has announced the country’s first bullet train project, set to connect Karachi to Lahore in just 5 hours, slashing the current 18–22-hour journey on trains like the Karachi Express (15UP). The 1,215-km route along the Main Line 1 (ML-1) will feature high-speed trains traveling at up to 250 km/h, funded by a USD 6.8 billion loan under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). Announced by Federal Railways Minister Hanif Abbasi, the project aims to modernize Pakistan’s outdated rail infrastructure, boost economic growth, and ease travel for millions.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Route | Karachi to Lahore (Main Line 1, ML-1) |
| Distance | 1,215 km (755 miles) |
| Travel Time | ~5 hours (down from 18–22 hours) |
| Speed | Up to 250 km/h (average 243 km/h) |
| Estimated Cost | USD 6.8 billion (PKR 1.93 trillion at PKR 283.91/USD) |
| Funding | China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) loans, Pakistan Railways |
| Status | Feasibility completed; construction to start 2026, completion by 2030 |
| Source | Pakistan Railways, Ministry of Railways, DawnNewsTV |
Project Details
- Route and Speed: The bullet train will run on the upgraded ML-1 track, covering 1,215 km from Karachi Cantonment to Lahore Junction, with stops at major stations like Hyderabad, Rohri, Multan, and Sahiwal. Trains will operate at an average speed of 243 km/h, achieving the 5-hour target.
- Infrastructure Upgrade: The project includes dual-tracking the entire route, grade separation, and advanced signaling systems. The existing track, limited to 60–105 km/h, will be rebuilt to support 25-ton axle loads and high-speed trains, with new bridges and tunnels, especially between Lalamusa and Lahore.
- Cost and Funding: Estimated at USD 6.8 billion (PKR 1.93 trillion), the project is funded by Chinese loans via CPEC, with Pakistan Railways contributing. Construction is set to begin in 2026, targeting completion by 2030.
- Key Players: The Ministry of Railways, Pakistan Railways, and Chinese firms like China National Machinery Import and Export Corporation are leading the project. A feasibility study was finalized in June 2025, with a working group overseeing timelines.
Why This Matters
- Economic Boost: The bullet train will enhance connectivity between Pakistan’s two largest economic hubs, facilitating trade and reducing logistics costs. It aligns with CPEC’s goal to increase Pakistan Railways’ freight share from 4% to 20% by 2030.
- Time Savings: Compared to the Green Line Express (22 hours) or Karachi Express (18 hours), the 5-hour journey will save commuters 13–17 hours, rivaling air travel (2 hours) at lower costs.
- Job Creation: Construction and operations will create thousands of jobs, especially in Sindh and Punjab, amid a 45% poverty rate and rising fuel costs (petrol at PKR 258.43/liter).
- Regional Impact: The upgraded ML-1 will connect to a planned Kashgar-Karachi rail under CPEC, boosting trade with China and Central Asia.
Challenges Ahead
- High Costs: The USD 6.8 billion price tag has raised concerns, with critics noting Pakistan’s financial strain (foreign reserves at USD 9.4 billion, June 2025). The Financial Times flagged the loan as risky, though supporters argue it’s essential for rail modernization.
- Infrastructure Hurdles: The current ML-1 track, with uneven terrain and outdated bridges, requires a complete overhaul. Three bridges between Karachi and Lahore need reconstruction to support high-speed trains.
- Public Skepticism: Experts call the project ambitious, citing past delays in CPEC projects. A senior railway official termed bullet trains a “dream” due to terrain and funding issues, though upgrades to 100–150 km/h are feasible with less investment.
What It Means for Pakistanis
- Commuters: A 5-hour journey will make rail travel a viable alternative to flights (PKR 20,000–30,000) or buses (12–15 hours). Estimated fares: PKR 5,000–10,000 for economy and AC business class, compared to Green Line’s PKR 2,200–6,650.
- Businesses: Faster freight transport will cut logistics costs, benefiting industries in Karachi and Lahore. Reduced road congestion will also lower fuel expenses (diesel at PKR 262.59/liter).
- Investors: Stocks like Pakistan Railways and OGDCL may rise with infrastructure growth. Monitor CPEC updates for investment opportunities tied to the USD 50–100 billion oil and gas reserves discovery.
Final Word
Pakistan’s first bullet train from Karachi to Lahore, set to launch by 2030, promises to transform travel, cutting the 1,215-km journey to just 5 hours. While the USD 6.8 billion CPEC-funded project faces financial and technical challenges, its success could redefine Pakistan’s rail system and economy.
Disclaimer: Based on June 28, 2025, data from Pakistan Railways, Ministry of Railways, and media reports. Verify details at pakrail.gov.pk for accuracy, as project timelines may shift.
