Pak Railways, Chinese firm to collaborate

Locally assembled wagons to double railway freight capacity by April

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LAHORE:

In a bustling factory in Lahore, the assembly of 115 flat wagons in Complete Knocked Down (CKD) form marks a significant milestone in Pakistan's railway freight transportation. Scheduled for deployment in April, these wagons are part of a 620-unit order being co-produced by Pakistan Railways and Chinese company Baotou Beifang Chuangye Co, Ltd

"Once all 620 freight wagons are fully operational, these wagons will double Pakistan's railway freight capacity," said Philippe Mi, the Chinese project director for the 820 High-Capacity Wagon (HCW) project. In 2021, Beifang Chuangye secured a contract to supply 820 high-capacity freight wagons, including open-top, flat, covered wagons, and cabooses. By 2022, 200 wagons had been delivered and integrated into the railway system.

In 2024, 115 open-top wagons, assembled in Semi Knocked Down (SKD) form at the Risalpur factory, were deployed on routes linking Karachi Port with inland destinations. This expansion increased freight capacity while easing storage pressures at Karachi Port. "This initiative is a pivotal step toward reducing import reliance and fostering local industry," said Aamir Baloch, CEO of Pakistan Railways. He emphasised its role in enhancing economic self-sufficiency and modernising freight transportation.

The standardised wagon designs ensure operational compatibility and reduce maintenance costs. Ishaq Butt, the Pakistani project director for the 820HCW project, highlighted this efficiency, noting its importance in the context of national infrastructure priorities.

The project has also created around 450 direct jobs, with many young technicians gaining valuable training. "This local production project has trained many young technicians and skilled workers for our railway department, significantly boosting our manufacturing capabilities and sustaining them for the future," Butt added.

Beifang Chuangye has provided comprehensive support, including personnel training, equipment upgrades, inventory management, and quality control processes. These efforts have enhanced the capabilities of the assembly lines in Lahore and Risalpur.