MIRPURKHAS: A delegation of the Sindh Energy Department conducted a comprehensive site visit at Chhor near Umerkot to review progress on the critical 105-kilometre railway line connecting the Thar coal mines to Bin Qasim.

The delegation, comprising Sindh Energy Secretary Shahab Qamar Ansari, Mirpurkhas Commissioner Faisal Uqali and other senior officials of the Energy Department, visited the key infrastructure project aimed at bolstering Pakistan’s energy security through efficient coal transport.

The project also includes a nine-kilometre track extension from Bin Qasim to Port Qasim and a dedicated coal unloading facility at the port.

According to an official statement, Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah has emphasised that the railway line will integrate the Thar coal mines with the national railway network and Port Qasim, enabling seamless coal transportation.

Valued at approximately Rs90 billion, the project is being funded jointly by the Sindh and federal governments.

Expressing satisfaction with the project’s overall progress, the secretary directed all teams to accelerate construction activities.

He commended the strong collaboration of Pakistan Railways and the Frontier Works Organisation (FWO) in advancing the project’s implementation.

Project officials delivered a detailed briefing on the construction status.

Underscoring the need for timely completion, the secretary stressed enhanced coordination among stakeholders, including mining and power companies, to meet deadlines.

Published in Dawn, January 8th, 2026