ML-1 project: NRA China vows to collaborate closely with Pakistan Railways
- By Web Desk -
- Nov 26, 2023
ISLAMABAD: Secretary of Railways Syed Mazhar Ali Shah said on Sunday that the Main Line-I (ML-1) project would transform the transportation sector in the country and serve as a game-changer, significantly boosting the revenue of Pakistan Railways.
Speaking to a high-level delegation of technical experts from the National Railway Administration (NRA), China, he emphasized that the ML-1 project holds immense importance for Pakistan’s social and economic progress.
The purpose of the visit by the NRA experts was to evaluate the progress of the ML-1 project and expedite its implementation, the state news agency reported.
Syed Mazhar highlighted the significance of the collaboration with China, considering them a close friend and partner, often referred to as Pakistan’s ‘Iron Brother.’
The NRA pledged to collaborate closely with Pakistan Railways to kick start ground operations for the ML-I project.
The Chinese government has assured full support for the ML-1 project, and joint efforts will be made to ensure its swift completion.
The ML-1 project is poised to bring about a transformative change in Pakistan’s railway system, and both countries are committed to working together for the project’s speedy realization.
Related: ML-1 groundbreaking by early 2024, PM told
Yesterday, the Pakistan Railways administration urged swift action from China’s authorities on the ML-1 (Mainline-1) project.
Pakistan Railway CEO Amir Baloch made the request during a warm reception of a high-level delegation from China’s National Railway Administration.
The 21-member delegation, led by Zhu Mengrui, team leader of the ML-1 project, expressed full support and commitment to the timely initiation of the transformative ML-1 project.
Baloch highlighted the unprecedented cooperation between Pakistan and China in energy and transport sectors, emphasizing ML-1 as a game-changer that will revolutionize Pakistan’s transport and boost revenue in the freight sector.
Mengrui assured collaborative efforts in addressing all aspects, including financing schemes and design proposals, marking a significant step towards enhancing economic ties and reducing transportation costs with the establishment of economic zones linked to ML-1.