KARACHI, July 24: The work on conversion of 135km-long meter gauge track into broad gauge from Mirpurkhas up to Zero Point of Pakistani border is going on in full swing and expected to be completed by Dec 31, paving the way for start of train service between Pakistan and India through Khokhrapar-Monabao border from Jan 1, 2006.

Divisional Superintendent Railways, Karachi Division, Junaid Qureshi told APP that despite hot weather and dust storms in the area, the work was going on as per schedule. He said that 29km-portion of the track from Khokhrapar towards Mirpurkhas had been converted into broad gauge so far. Besides, he added, the required material including rails, sleepers and other equipment were being transported daily from Mirpurkhas to the work site.

Mr Qureshi said that the project cost was estimated at Rs1.8 billion, out of which Rs1 billion would be spent on track conversion and strengthening of 135 bridges in the first phase for the start of train service while the second phase would involve repair and renovation of buildings and water supply.

He said Khokhrapar railway station would be reconstructed to provide facilities of immigration and customs for which plans were being finalized at Railway Headquarters in Lahore.

He said existing 40km-long broad gauge track between Mirpurkhas and Hyderabad was also being strengthened by replacing rails and sleepers.—APP