Minister for Railways Mohammad Hanif Abbasi said on Friday that Pakistan Railways is moving forward despite limited resources, and this progress has been attracted to a strong commitment and cautious plan. He expressed the hope that the people would soon see a clear improvement in the sector.
Presiding over a high level meeting at the Railway Headquarters, the Minister approved several important reforms and modernization measures.
Under this system, outsourcing existing contracts as well as outsourcing passenger trains through open auction is one of the important steps. The meeting also agreed to review the annual revenue targets for the trains, a special committee was formed to handle the process.
To improve safety, the department has been upgraded to the directorate level, new officers and staff have been posted to stabilize its role.
The minister also received a detailed update about the terms of the guards and drivers’ comfort houses. Calling them as the backbone of the railway, he ordered to immediately upgrade the facilities in Rohri, Khanpur, and Khinwal, including air conditioning, kitchen and joint food halls.
In freight operations, Abbasi expressed satisfaction over the progress of the mechanical department, confirmed that 295 high -capable freight wagons would be included in the system by March 30. He also announced that freight booking will be filled on an online platform next week to ensure transparency and performance.
The Passenger services, the Shalimar Express will soon receive the new AC standard and AC parlor coach, while the renewed coaches for Lahore – Rawalpindi Rail Cars are scheduled to begin till November 11.