Senate body calls for modernisation of Pakistan Railways

Session focused on accountability of officials involved in corruption over the past five years

ISLAMABAD:

The Senate Committee on Railways stressed the critical importance of modernising and enhancing the railway system to ensure the nation's long-term well-being and prosperity.

The meeting, chaired by Senator Jam Saifullah Khan on Thursday, focused on various issues, including corruption control within the railway system and the accountability of officials involved in corruption over the past five years.

Senator Shahadat Awan urged the Ministry of Railways to provide comprehensive details on instances of fraud within the department. He argued that attributing the entire financial loss to pension-related issues is unjustifiable.

Khan recommended that the ministry deliver a detailed briefing on the issues raised by Senator Shahadat Awan, specifically concerning theft, corruption, monetary losses, and the actions taken against those responsible.

The secretary of the Ministry of Railways assured the committee of the ministry's strict adherence to a zero-tolerance policy for corruption. He added that the ministry is fully prepared to investigate matters as thoroughly as the committee deems necessary. 

He emphasised that audit reports would be thoroughly reviewed under the committee's guidance and that all decisions would be made in strict accordance with the rules and regulations.

The committee also engaged in an in-depth discussion on the ML-1 project. Senior officials provided a briefing on the project's operations, key milestones, and the status of existing railway lines.

Senator Kamil Ali Agha inquired about the disruption of railway tracks following recent floods. It was reported that despite the challenges posed by the floods, the ML-1 design incorporates environmental resilience.

Officials affirmed that the project is transformational for the Railways. The chairman recommended that the ministry ensure the project loan is cost-effective, reduces travel time, and has positive environmental impacts.

In response, the secretary reiterated that the project is cost-effective and includes favourable loan repayment conditions. He also mentioned that private-sector investment is being sought for the project.

Senator Agha also suggested that the ministry present the original plan for the ML-1 project and review the reasons for changes in its financial cost and structural design. 

He further recommended that the ministry brief the committee on the steps taken to incorporate measures addressing climate change, considering the heavy rains and floods in the country.