A meeting chaired by Railways Minister Hanif Abbasi and Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi on Monday approved plans to launch a modern and fast train service between Islamabad and Rawalpindi.
Officials said the new service will connect Margalla Station in Islamabad with Saddar Station in Rawalpindi, cutting travel time between the twin cities to about 20 minutes. The Ministry of Railways will provide the existing track infrastructure, while the Capital Development Authority (CDA) will manage the train operations.
The framework agreement for the project is expected to be finalized and signed next week, according to participants of the meeting. Authorities stressed that work on the project would be carried out on a priority basis.
Speaking on the occasion, Railways Minister Hanif Abbasi described the train service as an important public welfare initiative, highlighting its potential to make commuting quicker and more convenient. Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi said the project reflects the federal government’s focus on easing daily life for citizens.
Minister of State for Interior Talal Chaudhry added that the service would not only offer a fast and affordable mode of transport but also help reduce traffic congestion on the busy roads linking the two cities.