History of Narrow Gauge Railways tracks in Pakistan

Pakistan inherited a vast network of narrow-gauge railways from the British colonial era, which connected various parts of the country. These lines were mainly built to transport goods and raw materials like coal, cotton, and wheat.

The narrow-gauge railway tracks in Pakistan were primarily laid in the mountainous regions of the country, where standard-gauge tracks were impractical due to the terrain. Some of the famous narrow-gauge railway lines in Pakistan include the Khyber Pass Railway, which connects Peshawar to Landi Kotal, and the Bolan Pass Railway, which connects Quetta to Sibi.

However, over the years, many of these narrow-gauge railways have become outdated and uneconomical, leading to their closure. Today, only a few narrow-gauge railway tracks are operational in Pakistan, mainly used for tourist purposes.

Overall, the narrow-gauge railway tracks in Pakistan have a rich history and played a significant role in the country's development, especially in the early days of its existence. However, their relevance has diminished over the years due to technological advancements and changes in transportation trends.

The narrower gauge enables tighter curves to be taken, especially in valleys and in generally difficult terrain. It is also shorter than normal railways, thus requiring less space at train stations.

Mari-Indus Railway (Bannu-Tank line)

Daud Khel–Lakki Marwat Branch Line –was one of several branch lines in Pakistan, operated and maintained by Pakistan Railways. The line began at Daud Khel Junction and ended at Lakki Marwat Junction. The total length of this railway line was 92 kilometers (57 mi) with 7 railway stations. It was known by locals as "choti rail" since it was the only 762 mm (2 ft 6 in) narrow gauge railway in the country. The line was dismantled in 1995. The rail line was originally built by NWR as the Trans–Indus Railway in 1913, which extended from Kalabagh station to Bannu station. The line was then further extended in 1916 to reach Tank Junction station, which today is part of the Bannu–Tank Branch Line. The line was also sometimes referred to as the Mari-Indus Railway.

Narrow gauge railway bridge on Indus at Kalabagh

Narrow gauge railway bridge on Indus at Kalabagh

Narrow gauge railway bridge on Indus at Kalabagh

Narrow gauge railway bridge on Indus at Kalabagh

Pakistan Railway Network Map

Mari Indus Railway 

Kalabagh Bridge over Indus

Kalabagh Bridge

Mari Indus Railway Station

Mari Indus Railway Station

Mari Indus Railway Station 

Closure of Narrow gauge

• Zhob Valley Railway (Boston–Zhob), a 294-kilometer narrow gauge railway, closed in 1985 and was dismantled in 2008.
• Dandot Light Railway, 10-kilometer narrow gauge railway, closed in 1996.
• Daud Khel–Lakki Marwat Branch Line, 144 km narrow gauge railway, constructed in 1913, dismantled in 1995.
• Bannu–Tank Branch Line, a 122-kilometer narrow gauge railway, constructed in 1913, was dismantled in 1995.
• Kohat–Thal Railway, 100-kilometer narrow gauge railway, constructed in 1903, was abandoned in 1991.