Comparative Analysis of Inter-Model and Truck-Based Freight Transportation: Case Study of Faisalabad – Karachi Corridor

Abstract

Pakistan is facing serious-crisis in railway freight system since 1970 where the inland passenger traffic drastically reduces from 41 % to 10 % while freight traffic operation reduced to 5 %. Pakistan railway has witnessed a golden era before this time where the freight traffic operation was flourishing at 73 % of total freight operations. Railway being an economical and viable option for commodities can play an important role in country’s economic growth but the dramatical decline has worsen the condition and there is need to take serious steps to enhance the capacity. In this study, we are proposing a new intermodal route between industrial hub Faisalabad and nearest port Karachi. The investigations found that if proposed model is implemented effectively, 41 % of total freight operation can be shifted from roads to railways resulting in economic spent reduction as well as reduction in hazardous emissions from engines.