Railways plans to end 2,679 vacant posts

Initiative aims to eliminate 2,679 vacant positions within state-run enterprise, resulting in substantial savings

KARACHI:

Pakistan Railways (PR) has decided to upgrade its exist- ing computer system and implement new software and apps to reduce the need for manpower.

This initiative aims to eliminate 2,679 vacant positions within the state-run enterprise, resulting in substantial savings of millions of rupees and a decrease in other related expenses. The completion of this project will not only establish a strong relationship between the Railways and people but also boost its outdated image.

According to details, many posts in the Railways from grade 1 to grade 16 — including in the administration, welfare and medical, store, and IT departments — have been vacant for the last three years. Instead of recruiting people for these posts, the Railways decided to use the latest technology, which would be more effective in terms of cost.

“There are 7,834 vacancies in the administration, medical, welfare, stores, and IT departments from grades one to 16,” PR Chief Personnel Officer (CPO) "We will eliminate these [7,834] posts in a phased manner, resulting in 5,155 slots to be filled" PR CPO Athar Riaz

Athar Riaz told The Express Tribune on the phone. “Of them, 2,679 posts will be eliminated,” he added. The official explained that they would eliminate these posts in a phased manner, resulting in 5,155 slots to be filled. “The use of Pakistan Railways’ contact app as well as computer-based interlocking (CBI) and enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems will be promoted, which will be cost-effective.”

It should be noted that the PR’s CBI is a signaling system, which uses computer technology to control railway signals and track switches.

It improves the safety and efficiency of train operations as it controls their movements automatically, reducing the risk of human error.

Similarly, the Railways’ ERP is a software platform that manages as well as automates various business processes, including the inventory and data collection systems.

The PR’s contact app is a mobile application that provides passengers with easy access to information including train schedules, ticket booking, and tracking.

It aims to improve the over-all travel experience by making railway services more accessible and user-friendly.

According to a notification received by The Express Tribune, out of 3,393 posts in Pakistan Railways’ administration department, 1,326 will be abolished, leaving 2,067 vacancies.

In the welfare department, 15 out of 37 posts will be eliminated, leaving 22 positions. Similarly, 85 out of 116 posts in the IT department will be abolished, leaving 31 slots.