ISLAMABAD: The Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC) is facilitating the upgradation of Main Line-1 (ML-1), a strategic railway infrastructure project aimed at strengthening Pakistan’s national connectivity, improving logistics efficiency and supporting long-term industrial and economic growth. The ML-1 project will enhance railway capacity and freight-handling capabilities, enabling greater movement of cargo by rail and helping connect major industrial centres with Pakistan’s ports. The upgraded rail network is expected to improve the efficiency of national supply chains, reduce pressure on highways and provide a stronger foundation for the country’s evolving logistics infrastructure. A key outcome of the project will be a significant reduction in Karachi–Peshawar rail transit time, from approximately 70–90 hours to 25–30 hours, substantially improving the movement of goods across the country. Enhanced freight capacity and the development of a dedicated freight corridor will further strengthen rail’s role in supporting commercial and industrial activity. The improved ML-1 network will also contribute to the commercial viability of ML-2 and ML-3, while facilitating expanded freight connectivity towards Attock, Quetta, Taftan and mineral-producing regions. This enhanced connectivity will support access to strategic economic areas and create opportunities for more efficient transportation of industrial and mineral commodities. Through its facilitation role, SIFC is supporting coordinated efforts to advance strategic infrastructure initiatives that can improve Pakistan’s investment and business environment. The modernization of ML-1 represents an important step towards developing a more integrated, efficient and competitive national logistics system. The project is expected to contribute to Pakistan’s broader economic objectives by strengthening connectivity between production centres, markets and ports, improving freight efficiency and creating an enabling infrastructure base for industrial expansion and investment. SIFC remains committed to facilitating strategic infrastructure development and supporting initiatives that strengthen Pakistan’s connectivity, enhance economic efficiency and unlock new opportunities for sustainable industrial and investment-led growth