(By Mian Iftikhar Ahmad)
Federal Minister for Railways Muhammad Hanif Abbasi has said that Pakistan Railways is being modernized at a rapid pace and will soon become one of the world’s best railway systems. He said record progress has been achieved in just eight months. Addressing the media on Wednesday during the inauguration ceremony of Faisalabad Railway Station’s upgradation, he announced that Wi-Fi facilities have been launched at four major stations, including Lahore and Rawalpindi, and will soon be expanded further.
He said that a passing-out parade held in Lahore a day earlier had representation from all provinces. “Under the Prime Minister’s vision, modernization work in Railways is being carried out efficiently and transparently. The renovation of Faisalabad Station has been completed in line with the original British-era design. I appreciate the efforts of the CEO Railways and the Divisional Superintendent for their hard work,” he added.
The minister also praised industrialist Mian Muhammad Idrees for his contribution to the station’s renovation, saying, “May Allah reward him for his support.” He stated that after Faisalabad, Rawalpindi Station’s inauguration will take place next. “The new Shalimar Train is equipped with modern facilities, excellent cleanliness, and is fully digitalized. Work on four sections of Narowal will be completed by January. The flood-damaged Shorkot section has been restored, and now 500–600 passengers can wait comfortably at the station,” he explained.
He said that work on the 500-kilometer Karachi–Rohri section, originally built in 1861, has begun. “The Prime Minister has selected this section for upgradation with an allocation of Rs. 2 billion, and its foundation stone is expected to be laid by June next year. In Chagai, 400 km of new track and 484 km of upgraded track will be completed. Similarly, the Lahore–Rawalpindi section is being converted from single to double track, allowing trains to travel up to 160 km/h and reducing travel time,” he elaborated.
The minister further said that 14 railway schools are being upgraded—three have already been outsourced and three more will be soon, including one in Karachi and two in Lahore—to ensure quality education. “Indoor treatment in all railway hospitals will now be completely free,” he announced.
Commenting on the welfare of railway staff, Abbasi said: “It is unacceptable that an airline pilot carrying 300 passengers stays in a five-star hotel while our train staff lacks facilities. Within six months, we will ensure world-class accommodation and working conditions for drivers and operational staff at ten key locations.” He added that outsourcing cargo and luggage vans this year will generate a financial impact of Rs. 10 billion.
Speaking on regional issues, he said: “Our enemy, India, still cannot recover from the wounds of defeat. Pakistan’s foreign policy and the stature of our Field Marshal are being acknowledged globally, with China, the U.S., and Russia standing alongside us. The enemy has started a proxy war in Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, but Pakistan will remain united and strong. Those who speak against Pakistan will face a strong response.”
Referring to India and Afghanistan, Abbasi said: “India will receive a befitting response if it dares to act against Pakistan. Afghans betrayed Pakistan despite our 40 years of brotherhood and support—they even joined hands with India during the 1965 war. The KP Chief Minister should look at Punjab and Balochistan, where peace prevails, while in his province life and property are unsafe. Terrorists have no religion or loyalty; around 24 groups currently control parts of Afghanistan—who will listen to whom?”
Hanif Abbasi emphasized that the welfare of railway employees is his top priority, as solving their problems and providing them facilities will enhance their performance. “We are upgrading all coaches and stations, laying new tracks, and improving the existing ones. Employees showing outstanding performance will be recognized and rewarded,” he assured.
Paying rich tribute to the armed forces, he said, “The peace we enjoy today is due to the sacrifices of our martyrs who fought bravely against terrorists.” He added that under the leadership of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, the government is taking several steps for public welfare, and their positive results will soon be visible.
The event was also attended by former FPCCI President and industrialist Mian Muhammad Idrees, former MNAs Haji Muhammad Akram Ansari and Mian Abdul Manan, Faisalabad Chamber of Commerce & Industry President Farooq Yousaf Sheikh, former Vice President and trader leader Aslam Bhalli, CEO Railways Aamir Ali Baloch, DS Railways Inamullah Marwat, Station Master Muhammad Arshad, and other senior officials.
