CDA, Railways Finalise MoU for Islamabad–Rawalpindi Train Service

The Capital Development Authority (CDA) and Pakistan Railways have finalised a draft Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to launch a high-speed electric train service between Islamabad and Rawalpindi.

The initiative comes on the instructions of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, who has directed the CDA to carry out a feasibility study and ensure timely execution.

The service will initially operate between Margalla Railway Station in Islamabad and Saddar Rawalpindi, with future plans to extend the line to 7Up Chowk, connecting with 9th Avenue where the metro bus service is already functional.

Learning from Past Challenges

• Officials acknowledged that a similar service launched in the 1990s failed due to low ridership. However, they assured that the new project is designed with modern features and feeder bus services to avoid past shortcomings.
• The plan includes integrating the train service with an eco-friendly electric bus network, enabling easy access for commuters across the twin cities.

Key Features of the Project

• High-speed electric train system.
• Feeder buses linking major universities, colleges, and residential areas.
• Environmentally friendly design to reduce congestion and pollution.
• Affordable and safe transport option for daily commuters.

Launch Timeline

• The government aims to inaugurate the service on March 23, 2026, a symbolic date tied to Pakistan Day celebrations.
• Railways will provide and maintain the track, while CDA is expected to procure and operate the trains.

Official Statement

CDA Chairman Muhammad Ali Randhawa, who chaired the review meeting with Railways officials, said:

“This project will not only reduce traffic congestion in the twin cities but also provide citizens with a modern, comfortable, and affordable transport alternative.”

The Islamabad–Rawalpindi train project is being hailed as a game-changer for urban mobility, with authorities confident it will finally deliver where past attempts fell short.

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