PM Shehbaz approves strategic roadmap to revamp Pakistan Railways

Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif on Sunday approved a comprehensive strategic roadmap aimed at transforming Pakistan Railways into a safe, affordable, and modern transport network.

Chairing a high-level meeting in Islamabad, the prime minister emphasised that the freight sector serves as the “backbone” of the railway system and must be developed on a priority basis. He noted that an efficient railway system would not only reduce traffic congestion on roads but also promote eco-friendly transport by cutting carbon emissions.

The meeting was given a detailed briefing on the strategic roadmap and targets for comprehensive reforms in Pakistan Railways.

The roadmap includes targets for increasing market share in both the passenger and freight sectors. Improving the quality of railway services, increasing network capacity, and financial stability will be the key pillars of the roadmap, the PMO said.

“This roadmap includes targets for improving the railway governance system, digitisation, expansion of railway lines, regional connectivity, private sector inclusion through public-private partnerships, and establishing financial stability,” it added.

The use of modern coaches, provision of facilities for passengers on trains and at stations, upgrading of ML-1, ML-2, ML-3, and other tracks, as well as right-sizing, are also part of the reforms.

“Pakistan Railways possesses significant potential to become a safe and affordable means of travel for the public and transportation for freight,” stated the premier.

Shehbaz directed that the services of world-renowned experts and consultants be acquired to implement the railway reform roadmap.

He said private sector investment in Pakistan Railways should be promoted through Public-Private Partnerships (PPP). Improving the railway system, he noted, will reduce traffic pressure on the roads.

A modern and efficient railway system will assist in reducing carbon emissions and promoting eco-friendly transportation, said the prime minister.

Revenue generated from private sector investment on railway lands should be utilised for the improvement of the railway system, he maintained.

PM Shehbaz asserted that the development of Pakistan Railways is vital for regional connectivity and will serve as a catalyst for increased economic activity across the country.

The meeting was attended by federal ministers, including Ahsan Iqbal and Ahad Khan Cheema, Muhammad Hanif Abbasi, Advisor on Privatisation Muhammad Ali, Minister of State for Finance Bilal Azhar Kayani, and senior officials from relevant departments.