Ayesha Saba

Key railway and urban transport initiatives advanced in October as the federal government approved and recommended major project proposals aimed at improving mobility, enhancing transport efficiency and supporting urban development across several regions. According to the Monthly Development Update for November 2025 issued by the Ministry of Planning, Development and Special Initiatives, the transport and communication sector saw progress on multiple feasibility studies and infrastructure proposals considered by the Central Development Working Party (CDWP) during the month.

The report states that three feasibility studies were taken up by the CDWP in the transport and communications category. Two of these studies were approved, focusing on the development of sustainable Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) corridors equipped with feeder routes to improve public transport systems in key urban centres. The approved studies aim to assess route planning, infrastructure requirements, ridership patterns and operational frameworks needed for the establishment of efficient, modern BRT systems.

According to the document, the initiatives form part of broader efforts to expand high-capacity public transport solutions that can reduce congestion, improve mobility and support urban planning objectives. A third transport-related feasibility study was referred to the Executive Committee of the National Economic Council (ECNEC) for final clearance. This proposal seeks to upgrade an existing double rail line to enable train operations at speeds of up to 160 kilometres per hour.

The report highlights that improving railway speeds and strengthening existing lines are essential for modernising the national rail network and enhancing intercity connectivity. The proposed upgrade is expected to increase travel efficiency, reduce journey times and support wider efforts to revitalise Pakistan Railways. According to the Monthly Development Update, these transport-sector studies are part of the broader development portfolio presented to the CDWP in October.

The transport and communication sector received one of the largest allocations under the Public Sector Development Programme (PSDP) for the current fiscal year, amounting to Rs333.48 billion. During the first four months of FY2025-26, the sector incurred expenditures of Rs25.93 billion. The report notes that transport infrastructure continues to attract significant policy attention due to its critical role in facilitating economic activity and enabling the movement of goods and passengers across the country.

The document also refers to related initiatives in the infrastructure domain that complement the transport-sector proposals. These include ongoing investments in physical planning, energy, hydropower and special areas that collectively support national connectivity and regional development. According to the report, improvements in transport systems are closely aligned with other federal priorities such as expanding water access, ensuring a reliable power supply and strengthening social-sector outcomes.

The Planning Ministry notes that the feasibility studies approved in October will help lay the groundwork for future infrastructure projects by providing detailed assessments of technical, financial and operational requirements. Advancing well-prepared feasibility studies, the Ministry states, is essential to ensuring that subsequent development projects meet national standards, remain within budget and achieve intended outcomes.

The evaluation process also includes reviews of potential social and environmental impacts to ensure compliance with regulatory frameworks. The document further highlights that the transport initiatives considered by the CDWP form part of the government’s broader push for sustainable and inclusive urban development.

The expansion of BRT systems and the modernisation of railway infrastructure are expected to support more efficient public transport networks, reduce travel times and improve overall urban mobility. According to the report, these improvements are crucial for accommodating growing urban populations and supporting economic activity concentrated in major cities.

The Monthly Development Update concludes that the government remains committed to enhancing Pakistan’s transport landscape through strategic investments and rigorous technical planning. By advancing feasibility studies for both urban transit expansions and railway upgrades, the government aims to ensure that future transport projects are well-structured, financially viable and aligned with national development priorities.

Credit: INP-WealthPk