Railways bans air travel of officers

LAHORE: Under the austerity measures, Pakistan Railways on Saturday announced a ban on air travel of all officials.

A notification issued in this regard stated that no amount will be paid to officials under the head of air travel.

Pakistan Railways also imposed a ban on travel in government vehicles. All the officials are bound to travel by rail for official tours. These directives were issued with the approval of all chief executive officers and senior general managers.

Meanwhile, Pakistan Railways (PR) has imposed an emergency across the department on the instructions of Railways Minister Hanif Abbasi to ensure safe train operations. According to a statement issued by PR headquarters in Lahore on Saturday, all leaves of field officers had been cancelled for three months, while the officers have been directed to visit the field on Sundays as well to monitor train operations.

Civil and Mechanical Chief Engineers will submit daily reports to the Ministry regarding their respective areas of responsibility. Daily reports have also been sought from the Head of Safety. The emergency will remain in force until 31st of December.

Minister for Railways Hanif Abbasi said the government is committed to providing passengers with the safest possible journey in line with the Prime Minister’s vision.