PR launches property recovery worth Rs65b

Abbasi announces outsourcing of trains, digitisation, and solar power shift to modernise operations

KARACHI:

Federal Minister for Railways Muhammad Hanif Abbasi on Thursday unveiled reforms, recovery measures, and development projects aimed at modernising Pakistan Railways and making it more efficient, transparent, and business-friendly.

During a visit to the Karachi Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI), Abbasi said that railway lands worth Rs15 billion had been recovered, while properties worth another Rs50 billion would be retrieved this year. He clarified that railway property is non-saleable, though revenue-sharing partnerships are being pursued for better use.

Highlighting Karachi's role, Abbasi remarked, "Without Karachi, Pakistan's economy collapses, and without Karachi Division, Railways ceases to exist." He said the Thar coal transport project was progressing nationwide, while groundbreaking for the 480km Karachi–Rohri line is expected by June 2026.

On modernisation, the minister said 155 stations are being shifted to solar power, including 27 in Karachi. So far, 60 stations have been solarised. Wi-Fi is being installed at 40 stations, and ATM and Wi-Fi services will be expanded to all major stations. A new CIP lounge at Karachi Station will open on September 22, while railway saloons have been made available to the public at affordable rates.

Abbasi said Pakistan Railways had initiated digitisation and reduced losses. Regularisation of meters saved Rs4 billion, while ticket theft earlier cost Rs1 billion annually. He warned that ticketless travellers and facilitators would face imprisonment, stressing that "even ministers or Railways chairman will have to buy tickets."

The minister announced that 11 passenger trains had already been outsourced, with nine more to follow within six days. By December, 38 trains will be outsourced. Freight trains are also being outsourced to meet rising demand. Two trains have been handed to NLC, which is seeking 10 more. Eight railway hospitals and 14 schools are also being outsourced, though employees will continue to receive free medical care.

Abbasi admitted that trains were facing delays due to floods, while fares could not be reduced immediately. He said bogies and engines received eight years ago were of such poor quality that they had worn out despite a 30-year life expectancy. An inquiry has been ordered.