Sibi-Harnai rail service revived

Train plies after 18 years on public demand

SIBI:

Balochistan’s Caretaker Chief Minister, Ali Mardan Domki, expressed a strong commitment from both the provincial and federal caretaker governments to enhance transportation facilities for the people. This statement came as he inaugurated the Sibi to Harnai railway service at Sibi Railways station.

The ceremony was attended by the Caretaker Federal Minister for Railways, Shahid Ashraf Tarar, Chief Secretary of Balochistan, Shakeel Qadir Khan, Balochistan’s Caretaker Minister for Home and Tribal Affairs, Capt. (retired) Zubair Jamali, and other dignitaries.

Domki highlighted the significance of reviving the Sibi and Harnai train service after an 18-year hiatus, addressing a major concern for the local populace. The unavailability of a road between Sibi and Harnai had posed numerous challenges, but the reintroduction of the train service now offers an affordable mode of travel.

The caretaker chief minister emphasized that the revived service would provide residents of Sibi and nearby areas with access to fresh vegetables and fruits, positively impacting the local economy. Furthermore, he noted that this initiative would not only provide transportation facilities but also create employment opportunities for the local population.

He reassured the people of Balochistan that both the federal and provincial governments are dedicated to alleviating the sense of deprivation among the populace and hinted at more positive developments for Sibi and Balochistan in the future.

Shahid Ashraf Tarar, the Federal Minister, acknowledged the collaborative efforts of institutions and the public in reviving the train service. He specifically recognized the personal efforts of the chief minister in this endeavor.

Furthermore, he announced the launch of the Quetta to Karachi Bolan Mail train service, commencing on December 25.

Published in The Express Tribune, October 30^th, 2023.