Sibbi-Harnai train service linked to security provision: Senate body told

ISLAMABAD: The Senate's Standing Committee on Railways was informed on Tuesday that the Pakistan Railways would restore its Sibbi-Harnai train service, within a month, after security was provided by the Balochistan government.

Chief Executive Officer of Pakistan Railways Aftab Akbar apprised the committee, which met here with Asad Ali Khan Junejo in the chair, that the train service could not be restored without provision of security.

Four meetings had been held with the Balochistan government officials in that regard, he added.

He said the provision of basic facilities in the passenger train running between Quetta and Chaman had been outsourced. Some 400 liter water was required for the train.

The CEO said some 220 bogies would be purchased, besides upgraded the old ones, to overcome their shortage.

Secretary Railways Sikandar Sultan said the provision of basic facilities, including water, electricity and others, was the prime responsibility of the Pakistan Railways and efforts were underway in that regard.

Asad Junejo directed the Pakistan Railways to increase the number of bogies and submit a report within 15 days.

The official informed the Senate body that the Pakistan Railways had leased out three acres land and shops in Mardan Tehsil for 21 years  and 14.5 acres land were under illegal occupation.

Senators Mirza Muhammad Afridi, Gianchand, Khanzada Khan, Brig (R) John Kennth Williams, Liaqat Khan Tarakai, Seemee Ezdi and Muhammad Usman Khan attended the meeting.