Punjab announces Lahore-Rawalpindi fast train - check routes of Pakistan’s first project

Punjab announces Lahore-Rawalpindi fast train - check routes of Pakistan’s first project

Maryam Nawaz unveils Pakistan’s first Lahore-Rawalpindi fast train. File photo

April, 16 2026

(Web Desk): Lahore Rawalpindi fast train will reduce travel time to just 2 hours and 15 minutes as Maryam Nawaz announced Lahore-Rawalpindi fast train project.

The Punjab government and Pakistan Railways have signed a historic agreement to launch a modern railway system. Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz and Railway Minister Hanif Abbasi formally approved the project.

This new fast train will connect Lahore to Rawalpindi over a distance of about 280 kilometers. Passengers will enjoy quick, comfortable and modern travel for the first time on this route.

Along with the fast train, eight local train routes will also be launched across Punjab. These routes will cover around 1,415 kilometers in 20 regions to improve daily travel.

Modern DMU trains will be introduced on regional routes to provide better facilities. The Punjab government will also bring new engines and advanced coaches for these services.

Several important routes are included in the plan to improve connectivity. These include Shahdara to Narowal, Narowal to Sialkot, and Raiwind to Lodhran routes.

More routes like Sheikhupura to Shorkot and Lala Musa to Sargodha will also be upgraded. Faisalabad and Kot Addu to Kashmore routes are also part of this major expansion.

Railway Minister Hanif Abbasi said this project could benefit nearly 90 million people across nine routes. He praised the leadership of Maryam Nawaz for pushing forward such large-scale reforms.

He also shared that railway stations will be upgraded with better parking and modern facilities. Safety will improve through automatic systems to reduce accidents across Punjab.

Green parks will be developed along railway tracks from Shahdara to Raiwind. Over 400,000 plants will be planted to create a pleasant and European-style environment.

The minister added that Punjab aims to provide travel standards similar to Europe. He also highlighted improvements in health, education and IT sectors under current leadership.

He said previous governments did not invest in railway tracks, but now real progress is visible. The new project reflects a major shift in transport development across Punjab.

This project can save time and reduce travel stress for millions of people. If completed on time, it may change how people travel across Punjab.