Minister announces Pipri Freight Corridor project

Tarar says it will facilitate movement of goods from Karachi Port to upcountry destinations, vice versa

LAHORE:

The Pakistan Railways will construct a freight corridor from Pipri to Karachi to enhance revenue from goods transportation by rail. The project is expected to be completed by Oct 2023.

Railway Minister Shahid Ashraf Tarar announced approval of the Pipri Freight Corridor project during his visit to the Railway Headquarters here on Friday.

He received a detailed briefing on the project and discussed various options and technical aspects with the railways officials.

The minister said that the freight corridor would facilitate movement of goods from the Karachi Port to upcountry destinations and vice versa.

He said that the project would also reduce congestion and improve efficiency on the main line.
The minister also reviewed a business plan to increase revenue through transportation of goods by train.

He sought a report to identify more locations for unloading goods from trains, saying that the Pakistan Railways was committed to providing quality service to its customers and enhancing its share in the transport sector.

The minister also received updates regarding the outsourcing of services in railway hospitals. He directed the railway authorities to open all railway hospitals gradually for public use as per his instructions.

Further, the minister instructed the railway officials to decorate and beautify the Lahore Railway Station and make it more attractive for passengers and visitors. He said that the Lahore Railway Station was a historical landmark and a symbol of pride for the nation.

Meanwhile, a Pakistan Railways spokesperson said that the Shalimar Express train running between Lahore and Karachi had not been stopped while the decision to restore Awam Express was under consideration.

“No decision has been taken regarding the closure of Shalimar as it is running as usual.”

The spokesperson said passengers could book tickets according to the schedule.

“A formal termination order will be issued after the decision of the higher authorities regarding the closure of the train,” the spokesperson added.

 

(With input from app)