The Minister will upgrade passenger train booking, fully digitize 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 was held at the Rawalpindi Railway Station, which was decorated along with the train for the occasion. Senior PML-N leader and MNA Tahira Aurangzeb accompanied Abbasi.
Addressing a press conference, the minister said the Safari train has been fully upgraded, all coaches now have air-conditioning and padded seats to improve passenger comfort. He said additional facilities have also been put in place for both passengers and staff.
“The train was also operational earlier, but the difference now is our approach and commitment to provide better facilities to the public,” he said, noting that similar initiatives are being extended to Sindh as well.
The train will run along a scenic route covering Golra, Margalla and Attock Khurd, stopping at key stations where passengers will be provided with refreshments and briefed on the historical significance of the sites.
Highlighting broader reforms, the minister said Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif approved a bailout package 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Abbasi acknowledged long-standing problems in the sector, including outdated locomotives and track conditions, but expressed confidence that visible improvements would emerge by July.
He said work on the Lahore-Rawalpindi track will begin in the first week of September at an estimated cost of Rs.2.5 billion, with the Punjab government undertaking the project.
He also unveiled 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 are also on to extend rail connectivity to the Thar coalfields, describing it as an important first-time initiative. He added that all major railway projects are overseen by the Prime Minister.
Abbasi also stressed the need to improve facilities for railway workers, especially drivers and technical staff. “A pilot with 300 passengers enjoys five-star facilities, but a train conductor responsible for over 1,000 passengers has none. We intend to change that,” he said.
He also pointed to ongoing efforts to boost local production, stating that railway workshops are now producing coaches domestically and receiving offers for further expansion.
Abbasi said improved regional conditions would positively impact Pakistan’s economy, adding that ports such as Gwadar and Karachi will be further upgraded to handle increased activity. Reaffirming confidence in the country’s future, he said Pakistan is emerging as a key player for peace and economic growth in the region.
