In a major push to unlock Balochistan’s mineral wealth, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif directed that the colossal Reko Diq copper and gold project be connected to the Pakistan Railways network by 2028. The directive, issued during a high-level meeting attended by key cabinet members including Deputy PM Ishaq Dar and Defence Minister Khawaja Asif, aims to integrate the strategically vital mine into the national infrastructure.
Describing Pakistan Railways as the “backbone of the country’s economy and communication,” Prime Minister Sharif emphasized the affordability, speed, and environmental benefits of rail transport for moving the mine’s output. The Reko Diq project, hailed as one of the world’s largest undeveloped copper-gold deposits, is projected to generate a staggering $90 billion in operating cash flow over its lifetime. Canadian giant Barrick Gold holds a 50% stake, with the federal and Balochistan governments sharing the remainder.
“This rail link will develop the mines and minerals sector of Balochistan and create new employment opportunities for the local population,” stated Sharif. The proposed connection is expected to necessitate significant upgrades to key sections of Pakistan Railways, particularly Main Line-1 (ML-1) and Main Line-3 (ML-3), to handle the anticipated heavy freight traffic once the mine is operational.
An inter-ministerial committee has been immediately tasked with developing a comprehensive financing strategy and implementation plan for the rail project. This committee will also oversee critical infrastructure development to ensure the network is fully capable of large-scale mineral transport by the 2028 deadline.
The directive comes amid growing international interest in Reko Diq, highlighted by Saudi Arabia’s Manara Minerals expressing plans earlier this year to invest $500 million to $1 billion for a 10-20% stake. Stakeholders recently approved a revised feasibility study and granted initial approval for Phase-1 development, contingent on securing up to $3 billion in funding. Sharif’s order signals a decisive commitment to leveraging Pakistan’s mineral resources, particularly for driving economic growth in underdeveloped Balochistan.
