LAHORE: Federal Railway Minister Hanif Abbasi said that steps are being taken to improve the railway system. He has asked for a plan to outsource 10 trains.
Speaking to the media after the opening of a freight train at Lahore Cantt Railway Station, the minister said that the railway is an important asset. Work to improve it is ongoing, and all stations will be upgraded.
He said that the targets set for the railway will be achieved. Small trains will be imported and will arrive in Pakistan in six months. These trains will also run on routes. Efforts are being made to double the number of freight trains in one year.
Regarding outsourcing, he said a plan has been requested for 10 trains. He added that the Punjab government has taken responsibility for Lahore and Rawalpindi stations. They will make these stations match the world’s modern railway stations.
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The federal minister also said that with the Punjab government’s help, railway lands will be freed from encroachments. Trees will be planted along railway lines across Punjab.
He said that 14 railway schools will be outsourced, which will improve their quality. Eight railway hospitals will also be outsourced. This, along with other steps, will save 1.5 billion rupees yearly.
The minister said all resources will be used to improve the railway and make it a profitable organization. Transparency will be ensured in all railway projects.
Hanif Abbasi said that due to Shehbaz Sharif’s efforts, economic indicators are starting to improve, and this is being recognized internationally.
He added that the country has begun moving toward its goals. Although milk rivers are not flowing and job opportunities are not as expected, progress has started. Under the Prime Minister’s leadership, the journey of national development will continue.
