Pakistan may self-fund ML-1 rail line project

The Pakistani government may fund the ML-1 rail line project using its own resources if international funding does not materialize. Minister for Railways Hanif Abbasi stated this during a media briefing, emphasizing the project's urgency. The government is expecting a visit from a Chinese technical team by the end of March to discuss the project. In October 2024, both countries reaffirmed their commitment to upgrading the ML-1 line under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor. Abbasi also addressed issues of railway service delays and corruption, promising improvements. He discussed the recent Jaffar Express tragedy, revealing that 68 people died, including 33 terrorists, and highlighted the government's efforts to combat terrorism.