DP World, Pakistan Railways launch Pipri Freight Corridor Project
New multimodal logistics park set to transform Karachi cargo flow
DUBAI/KARACHI – DP World, Pakistan Railways and the National Logistics Corporation (NLC) have officially begun construction on the Dedicated Freight Corridor and Multimodal Logistics Park at Pipri, marking a major step in Pakistan’s logistics modernisation.
The groundbreaking ceremony at the site brought together key figures, including Federal Minister for Railways Hanif Abbasi, DP World Group Chairman and CEO Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem, and senior officials from NLC, Pakistan Railways, and port authorities.
The joint venture aims to strengthen cargo connectivity between Karachi’s ports and inland markets by shifting container movement from road to rail. This integrated logistics hub will improve efficiency, speed and reliability for both import and export flows, reducing pressure on Karachi’s congested roads.
Rail corridor upgrade
The first phase of the project involves rehabilitating a 52-kilometre rail corridor linking Karachi Port to the Marshalling Yard at Pipri. This development is complemented by a multimodal logistics park designed to combine rail, road and port operations under one roof. The facility will provide comprehensive services, including warehousing, stuffing and de-stuffing, cargo consolidation, and value-added logistics solutions. Phase one is expected to be completed within four months.
Cargo efficiency
Once operational, containers arriving at Karachi will be transported directly by rail to Pipri, from where cargo will be dispatched via rail and road to destinations across Pakistan, as well as to China, Central Asia, and other regional markets. Export cargo will follow the reverse route. By centralising operations at Pipri, the project is projected to reduce truck congestion in Karachi, lower logistics costs, shorten transit times, and extend the lifespan of critical road infrastructure.
Sustainable trade
Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem emphasised the project’s strategic importance, stating, “This project reflects DP World’s long-term commitment to developing world-class trade infrastructure and resilient supply chains. By integrating rail, road and port infrastructure, the Pipri hub will enhance trade flow efficiency, support sustainable logistics and strengthen Pakistan’s role as a key regional trade gateway.”
Strategic partnership
The collaboration between DP World, NLC, and Pakistan Railways was formalised through a Term Sheet in January 2025, followed by a commercial agreement in Q4 2025. Construction of the Pipri Freight Corridor and Multimodal Logistics Park reinforces DP World’s role in developing trade-enabling infrastructure and supporting regional connectivity from Pakistan’s ports to inland and cross-border markets.