ISLAMABAD: Ministry of Railways and the Asian Development Bank (ADB) are in advanced discussions for a loan of about $2 billion to finance the Karachi–Rohri section of the Main Line-1 (ML-1) railway project, Business Recorder reported, citing official sources.
The matter was discussed during a meeting on China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) projects chaired by Minister for Planning, Development and Special Initiatives Ahsan Iqbal.
Railway officials informed the meeting that the estimated cost of the Karachi–Rohri segment is around $2 billion, with ADB expected to provide approximately $1.2 billion. The bank is also engaging with the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) and the European Investment Bank (EIB) to arrange financing for the remaining amount.
Participants were told that Pakistan’s Embassy in China has sought details of the ML-1 financing plan, including third-party participation and Chinese funding requirements for specific sections. The information will be shared with Chinese authorities to facilitate further discussions.
The minister directed the Railways Ministry and relevant departments to prepare a detailed progress report and financing roadmap for sections beyond Rohri, particularly regarding potential Chinese participation. The information is to be conveyed to Pakistan’s mission in Beijing for consultation with the Chinese side.
During the meeting, the National Information Technology Board (NITB) presented progress on a digital CPEC Dashboard. The system is designed to allow designated officials to report implementation issues, track decisions and monitor timelines.
The dashboard will provide an overview of completed, ongoing and planned CPEC projects. The minister instructed stakeholders to ensure compliance with directives and asked NITB to make the system operational within 15 days, incorporating records of Joint Cooperation Committee meetings and ministry-wise progress.
The meeting was also informed that a Data Centre project is being developed by the Fauji Foundation, with a memorandum of understanding signed with ZTE during the prime minister’s visit to China in September 2025. ZTE is currently covering accommodation and meal expenses for security personnel at the project site.
Given project timelines, the Government of Punjab was requested to waive Special Protection Unit security charges, as security for foreigners working on non-CPEC projects is funded from public resources under the Interior Ministry’s procedures.
