Islamabad: Pakistan Railways’ ML-3 railway upgrade, valued at Rs. 278.62 billion, is under review following concerns raised by the Planning Commission regarding financing and security measures. The 996-kilometer line connects Rohri, Quetta, and Taftan, improving access to the Reko Diq mine and the Iranian border. Part of the project is planned to be funded through a $390 million bridge loan from Reko Diq Mining Company, to be repaid by June 2028, raising questions about financial sustainability. The Commission also questioned the Rs. 46.38 billion allocation for construction security and post-completion protection. Analysts suggest that careful planning is needed to ensure economic, trade, and regional connectivity benefits are realized without straining government resources.
