KP CM Chairs Key Railway Meeting, Kohat–Kharlachi Rail Project to Boost Regional Connectivity

Islamabad: Chief Minister Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Muhammad Sohail Afridi chaired an important meeting on railway development at KP House Islamabad, focusing on strengthening cooperation between the provincial government and Pakistan Railways and expanding modern train services across the province.
During the briefing, officials informed the meeting that a new 192-kilometer railway track from Kohat to Kharlachi will be constructed at an estimated cost of USD 642 million, with completion targeted within two years. The feasibility study for the project has been completed, while land acquisition is currently underway. The chief minister said the Kohat–Kharlachi train service is a pressing need of the time and will significantly improve public travel facilities while promoting trade and economic activity in the region.
The meeting also discussed the introduction of modern trains on various existing railway tracks in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. CM Sohail Afridi directed concerned authorities to prepare comprehensive plans with clear timelines for all proposed railway projects and to take concrete steps for launching train services in other major cities of the province.
In addition, detailed deliberations were held on operating a safari train on the 32-kilometer Jamrud–Landi Kotal railway track to promote tourism. The meeting reviewed proposals for the restoration, cleaning and renovation of historic railway stations, along with the development of green belts along railway tracks.
The chief minister reaffirmed that the provincial government will extend full cooperation to Pakistan Railways in the public interest. The meeting was attended by Finance Advisor Muzammil Aslam, Chief Secretary Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Shahab Ali Shah, Additional Chief Secretary Planning and Development Ikramullah, the Secretary Pakistan Railways, and transport department officials.