The minister will improve passenger train booking and fully digitalize freight booking to increase efficiency and reduce interference. PHOTO: ARCHIVE
RAWALPINDI:
Federal Railway Minister Hanif Abbasi on Sunday inaugurated the upgraded Safari Tourist Train from Rawalpindi to the historic destination of Attock Khurd, while outlining a series of measures aimed at reviving Pakistan’s railways.
The inauguration ceremony was held at the Rawalpindi railway station, which was decorated along with the train for the occasion. Senior PML-N leader and MNA Tahira Aurangzeb accompanied Abbasi.
Addressing a press conference, the minister said that the Safari train has been completely upgraded and now all carriages have air conditioning and padded seats to improve the comfort of passengers. He said additional facilities have also been introduced for both passengers and staff.
“The train was also operational earlier, but the difference now is our focus and commitment to provide better facilities to the public,” he said, pointing out that similar initiatives are also being extended to Sindh.
The train will operate along a scenic route covering Golra, Margalla and Attock Khurd, stopping at key stations where passengers will be provided with refreshments and briefed on the historical importance of the places.
Highlighting broader reforms, the minister said Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif approved a rescue package for Pakistan Railways, which will ensure uninterrupted supply of electricity and gas.
Abbasi acknowledged long-standing problems in the sector, including outdated locomotives and track conditions, but expressed confidence that visible improvements would emerge in July.
He said work on the Lahore-Rawalpindi road will begin in the first week of September at an estimated cost of Rs 2,500 crore, with the Punjab government taking up the project.
He also revealed a joint venture with the Sindh government for Rohri Junction, with 60% funding from the federal government and 40% from Sindh.
The minister said efforts are also being made to expand rail connectivity to the Thar coalfields, describing it as a major initiative for the first time. He added that all major railway projects are being supervised by the Prime Minister.
Abbasi also highlighted the need to improve facilities for railway workers, particularly drivers and technical staff. “A pilot carrying 300 passengers enjoys five-star facilities, but an engineer responsible for more than 1,000 passengers has none. We intend to change that,” he said.
He also highlighted ongoing efforts to improve local manufacturing, stating that railway workshops are now producing wagons in the country and receiving offers for further expansion.
Abbasi said improving regional conditions would have a positive impact on Pakistan’s economy, adding that ports like Gwadar and Karachi would be further improved to handle increased activity. Reaffirming confidence in the country’s future, he said Pakistan is emerging as a key player for peace and economic growth in the region.
