Punjab to get Pakistan's first fast train between Lahore and Rawalpindi

The Punjab government and Pakistan Railways on Thursday signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to launch a fast train service between Lahore and Rawalpindi and expand rail operations across the province.

The agreement was signed by Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz and Federal Minister for Railways Muhammad Hanif Abbasi, marking a joint effort to modernise railway transport in Punjab.

Under the initiative, the country’s first fast train service is planned between Lahore and Rawalpindi, covering a distance of approximately 280 kilometres in around two hours and 15 minutes.

The broader project aims to enhance and expand railway services across roughly 1,415 kilometres, spanning 20 regions and eight major local routes.

As part of the plan, modern diesel multiple unit (DMU) trains will be introduced on several regional routes. These include Shahdara to Narowal and Sialkot, Raiwind, Kasur, Pakpattan to Lodhran, Sheikhupura, Jaranwala to Shorkot, Lalamusa to Sargodha via Malakwal, and Faisalabad via Chak Jhumra to Shaheenabad. An inter-provincial corridor from Kot Addu to Kashmore via Dera Ghazi Khan is also included.

Officials said new locomotives and upgraded passenger coaches would be inducted to improve operational efficiency and service standards.