Field work on ML-1 project to be started this year

Islamabad: Minister for Railways Khawaja Saad on Thursday stated that the work on ML-1 project will begin by the end of this year.

Speaking to the media in Lahore on Thursday, minister claimed that the project's cost has ballooned as a result of the previous administration's lack of interest.

He stated that the ML-I project negotiations have advanced and expressed optimism that a deal would be reached before the end of the current year.

Saad said that the railway track between Kotri and Larkana, which was affected by heavy rain and flooding the year before, has been fixed.

Following a one-year suspension of rail service, the railway track was reopened when the passenger train Mohen Jo Daro Express departed for Rohri.

The minister of the federal railways observed the inauguration via video link.

The restored railway line at Kotri Station was officially opened by Divisional Superintendent of Railways for Karachi Muhammad Nasir Khalili. Between Kotri Station and Sehwan, the railway experienced damage by floods at three different locations last year.

Earlier, Minister for Railways and Aviation Khawaja Saad Rafique called on Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif in Model Town Lahore on Sunday.

Saad informed the prime minister of outsourcing efforts and changes made to Pakistan Intentional Airlines (PIA) in order to improve services at airports.

They also talked about issues pertaining to the relevant ministry and the nation's general political situation throughout the discussion.

The minister also gave the prime minister an update on the National Aviation Policy restructuring and the continued partnership between China and Pakistan on the ML-1 project.