Operational, financial: Railways Minister orders to meet targets before end of fiscal year

KARACHI: Pakistan’s Federal Minister for Railways, Muhammad Hanif Abbasi has directed officials to meet all operational and financial targets before the current fiscal year (2025-26) ends.

Chairing a high-level meeting in Karachi, Abbasi said Pakistan Railways must achieve its remaining targets within the next 70 days, particularly in the freight sector, which he described critical for revenue generation.

Officials told the meeting that the freight segment had so far generated Rs36 billion against a target of Rs45 billion. The minister ordered that the shortfall be fully recovered within the current fiscal year, directing authorities to deploy all available resources to boost freight operations.

To strengthen capacity, Abbasi approved the immediate induction of 25 hopper wagons into the system and said efforts were underway to stabilize and expand freight services.

He also instructed that new train rakes for Hazara, Ghouri and Badr Express services be added in the first week of May, while directing officials to expedite procurement of spare parts for power vans and ensure that idle coaches are made operational.

The minister ordered early restoration of traction motors for GU-40 locomotives and said delayed international spare parts should be imported via air cargo to avoid further disruptions.

In a move aimed at reducing energy costs and improving efficiency, Abbasi directed that solar systems be installed at all railway stations in Karachi Division before June 30.

He added that the introduction of “safe and smart” stations and modern control offices would accelerate the digital transformation of Pakistan Railways, with Karachi Cantt station next in line for upgrades after Lahore.

Abbasi also ordered strict action against illegal subletting in railway residential quarters, warning that those involved would be blacklisted.

“There will be no compromise on train punctuality,” he said, reaffirming the government’s commitment to improving passenger experience and operational performance.

The minister said two new innovation initiatives would be introduced in the railways sector before the end of 2026.

Copyright Business Recorder, 2026