Rail service between Islamabad and Rawalpindi to start shortly

The federal government has moved forward with plans to start a high-speed rail link between Islamabad and Rawalpindi to cut travel time, ease traffic congestion, and provide an affordable commuting option for residents of the twin cities.

Authorities have confirmed that a high-speed passenger train service will start between Islamabad and Rawalpindi on March 23. The service will begin on the existing railway line connecting Margalla Railway Station in Islamabad with Saddar Railway Station in Rawalpindi. The journey will take only 20 minutes. The decision was reached during a high-level meeting chaired by Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi and Railway Minister Hanif Abbasi at the Capital Development Authority (CDA) headquarters. Minister of State for Interior Talal Chaudhry, senior representatives from Pakistan Railways and CDA, and officials from the Rawalpindi Commissioner’s Office and law enforcement agencies also attended.

Railway Minister Hanif Abbasi announced that modern Diesel Multiple Units (DMUs) would be used for the service. DMUs are planned to be imported from China or another country, with the procurement process expected to take at least one month. He also said the PC-I of the project will be submitted to the Planning Division shortly. To improve accessibility, CDA’s electric buses will function as feeder transport to Margalla Station, also connecting to the existing Metro bus services. This comprehensive transport system is expected to deliver an efficient and hassle-free experience to passengers.

Under the plan, Pakistan Railways will be responsible for providing and maintaining the track, while the CDA will manage the day-to-day operations of the service. Officials further confirmed that the framework agreement will be signed next week, after which practical work will begin. Officials said that the project will save time and fuel, while decreasing congestion between the twin cities, and will benefit thousands of commuters each day.