Pakistan is set to launch a high-speed train service between Islamabad and Rawalpindi, with specialized train units being imported from China. The service is scheduled to begin operations on March 23, 2026, and is being jointly developed by the Capital Development Authority (CDA) and the Ministry of Railways.
The new diesel multiple unit (DMU) trains will run between Saddar Railway Station in Rawalpindi and Margalla Railway Station in Islamabad, cutting travel time to just 20 minutes. While CDA will oversee operations, Pakistan Railways will maintain the track infrastructure.
A proposed fare of Rs. 50 per one-way ticket aims to keep the service affordable. To enhance connectivity, authorities have suggested extending the Margalla Station to link with Ninth Avenue Metro Station, allowing seamless access to key destinations such as Pak Secretariat, Islamabad International Airport, and Srinagar Highway.
Currently, train travel between the twin cities is limited to longer-distance services like the Islamabad Express. The new high-speed link is expected to transform daily commuting for students, office workers, and general passengers, marking a significant step toward modernizing urban mobility in the capital region.