Revamping Railways: Dar chairs meeting to assess proposals

ISLAMABAD: Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister (DPM/FM), Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar, chaired a meeting here on Wednesday to assess proposals to revamp and restructure Pakistan Railways.

The meeting evaluated financing frameworks and operational models aimed at modernising railway infrastructure and ensuring financial sustainability. Participants examined restructuring options, including Public-Private Partnerships (PPP), domestic bank financing and international funding mechanisms.

The DPM/FM emphasised that a modern, efficient and fiscally viable railway network is vital for national economic integration and regional connectivity.

He directed the concerned ministries and financial institutions to explore all funding options, particularly for structuring commercial bank financing for the Main Line-1 (Rohri-Multan Section) project to ensure its implementation.

The meeting was attended by SAPM Tariq Bajwa; Governor of the State Bank of Pakistan; Secretaries of Railways and Economic Affairs Division; Special Secretary Finance; and representatives from concerned ministries and departments.

Meanwhile, Senator Dar chaired a committee meeting today on compliance withlabour laws.

The meeting examined the implementation status of international conventions and commitments related to labour laws, including the ILO conventions. Participants evaluated regulatory frameworks and enforcement mechanisms necessary to align domestic practices with global benchmarks.

The DPM/FM emphasised the importance of fulfilling international labour standards to strengthen Pakistan’s global economic engagement, enhance Pakistan’s export competitiveness and international trade standing.

He directed all concerned to maintain close coordination with provincial governments and adhere to agreed timelines for meeting all national commitments and obligations.

Adviser to the Prime Minister on Industries and Production; Secretaries of Commerce, Overseas Pakistanis, and Human Rights; and senior officials from relevant ministries and departments attended the meeting.

Copyright Business Recorder, 2026