Islamabad–Rawalpindi Rail Service Launch Date Revealed

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.

According to officials, the service is expected to be launched on March 23, initially using the existing railway track. The route will connect Margalla Railway Station in Islamabad to Saddar Railway Station in Rawalpindi, allowing passengers to cover the distance in just 20 minutes.

The decision was made 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 officials from Pakistan Railways, the CDA, the Rawalpindi Commissioner’s Office, and law enforcement agencies also attended.

Railway Minister Abbasi said the project would use modern Diesel Multiple Units (DMUs), likely to be imported from China or another country, with procurement expected to take at least a month. The formal PC-I of the project will be submitted to the Planning Division in the coming weeks.

To strengthen connectivity, CDA’s electric buses will serve as feeder services to Margalla Station, while existing Metro bus links will also integrate with the new system.

Under the plan, Pakistan Railways will provide and maintain track infrastructure, while the CDA will oversee operations. The framework agreement is expected to be signed next week.