Pakistan Railways begins local production of 620 more freight wagons

Pakistan Railways has launched the local production of 620 freight wagons following the successful delivery of 200 units.

The initiative, backed by the Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC), aims to reduce import dependence and attract foreign direct investment, Express News reported.

With support from a Chinese company, Pakistan has begun manufacturing modern freight wagons to enhance transportation capacity.

The project is expected to generate 450 new jobs and provide training opportunities for young technicians.

As part of the initiative, 115 flat wagons have been assembled in Lahore with Chinese investment. These wagons are set to be deployed in April.

Meanwhile, 115 newly manufactured wagons from Risalpur have been stationed at Karachi Port, boosting freight-handling capabilities.

With SIFC’s support, Chinese investment is helping Pakistan move towards economic self-sufficiency by strengthening its railway infrastructure.

Yesterday, in a recent recruitment test for Pakistan Railway Police, around 75% of candidates failed the physical test, with many unable to complete a one-kilometre run.

Both male and female candidates struggled with the challenge, with the majority failing to cover the distance within the allotted time.

According to reports, male candidates were required to complete the kilometre in seven minutes, but only 25% of the 1,000 candidates succeeded. Female candidates, who had ten minutes to finish the same distance, also faced significant challenges, with many not completing the run at all.

Several candidates collapsed after attempting the run, and medical staff were on-site to provide immediate assistance.

In a show of support for the female candidates, DIG Railways Abdul Rab also participated in the run. He completed the kilometre in a timely manner, while hundreds of younger candidates struggled, with some quitting within minutes of starting the test.

Speaking to Express News, DIG Abdul Rab commented, “Social media has had a negative impact on the fitness levels of our youth. The fact that the majority couldn’t even manage a kilometre shows where they stand in terms of physical fitness. How will they perform in more demanding tasks?”