The minister will improve passenger train booking and fully digitalize freight booking to increase efficiency and reduce interference. PHOTO: FILE
RAWALPINDI:
Federal Minister for Railways Hanif Abbasi on Sunday inaugurated the upgraded Safari tourist train from Rawalpindi to the historic destination of Attock Khurd while outlining a series of measures aimed at reviving Pakistan Railways.
The inauguration ceremony took place at Rawalpindi railway station, which was decorated with the train for the occasion. Accompanying Abbasi was senior PML-N leader and MP Tahira Aurangzeb.
Speaking at a press conference, the minister said the Safari train had been fully upgraded with all coaches now equipped with air conditioning and padded seats to improve passenger comfort. He said additional facilities have also been introduced for passengers and staff.
“The train was also operational earlier, but the difference now lies in our approach and commitment to providing better facilities to the public,” he said, noting that similar initiatives are also being extended in Sindh.
The train will run along a scenic route covering Golra, Margalla and Attock Khurd, stopping at key stations where passengers will receive refreshments and be briefed on the historical significance of the places.
Highlighting broader reforms, the minister said Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif had approved a bailout plan for Pakistan Railways, which will ensure uninterrupted supply of electricity and gas.
Abbasi acknowledged long-standing problems in the sector, including outdated locomotives and track conditions, but expressed confidence that visible improvements would appear by July.
He said work on the Lahore-Rawalpindi track would begin in the first week of September at an estimated cost of Rs 2.5 billion with the Punjab government taking up the project.
He also revealed a joint venture with the Sindh government for Rohri Junction, with 60% funding from the federal government and 40% from Sindh.
The minister said efforts were also underway to extend rail connectivity to the Thar coalfields, describing it as an important first initiative. He added that all major railway projects are monitored by the Prime Minister.
Abbasi also stressed the need to improve facilities for railway workers, especially drivers and technical staff. “A pilot carrying 300 passengers gets five-star facilities, but a train driver responsible for more than 1,000 passengers gets none. We intend to change that,” he said.
He also highlighted ongoing efforts to improve local manufacturing, saying railway workshops are now producing coaches in the country and are receiving bids for further expansion.
Abbasi said improving regional conditions would have a positive impact on Pakistan’s economy, adding that ports such as Gwadar and Karachi would be further upgraded to cope with increased activity. Reaffirming his confidence in the country’s future, he said Pakistan is emerging as a key player for peace and economic growth in the region.
