ISLAMABAD: The federal government has given the green light to a high-speed rail project aimed at connecting Islamabad and Rawalpindi, cutting travel time between the twin cities to just 20 minutes.
The initiative is designed to provide commuters with a fast and affordable transport option while reducing fuel consumption and easing traffic congestion. Officials say the project will also support economic activity and environmental sustainability.
The decision was taken at a high-level meeting on Monday, jointly chaired by Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi and Railways Minister Hanif Abbasi. Minister of State for Interior Talal Chaudhry, the Federal Interior Secretary, Secretary Railways, CDA Chairman, Rawalpindi Commissioner, Islamabad Police Inspector General, and representatives of the Frontier Corps were also present.
According to the plan, the Ministry of Railways will develop the track infrastructure, while the Capital Development Authority (CDA) will manage the service. The framework agreement for the project is expected to be signed next week. The government has also decided to import modern trains to ensure efficient, safe, and comfortable travel.
Railways Minister Hanif Abbasi hailed the upcoming service as a landmark project for public welfare, saying it will make daily commuting between the two cities quick and convenient. Minister of State Talal Chaudhry added that the service would be a low-cost, high-speed solution that will ease the burden on existing road networks.
Officials emphasised that the rail link represents a transformative step in urban transportation, setting the stage for modernised, sustainable travel in the Islamabad-Rawalpindi region.