Pakistan Railways approves reform roadmap to expand freight and passenger services
Pakistan Railways has approved a strategic roadmap to modernise operations and become financially self-sustaining. It aims to raise its freight share from 8 percent to about 20 percent after the ML-1 upgrade.
- Pakistan Railways approved a strategic reform roadmap on modernisation and financial sustainability.
- It targets a freight share of about 20 percent, up from 8 percent, after ML-1 upgradation.
- Passenger share is to rise from 5 percent to 7.52 percent.
- Digital services, private-sector participation and outsourcing of some hospitals and schools are planned.
Pakistan Railways has approved a comprehensive strategic reform roadmap aimed at turning the department into a modern, efficient, customer-focused and financially sustainable organisation, Associated Press of Pakistan reported. The Nation also reported the approval.
According to APP, the roadmap covers freight operations, passenger services through infrastructure development, private-sector participation and digital transformation.
On freight, Pakistan Railways aims to raise its market share from 8 percent to about 20 percent once the Main Line-1 (ML-1) is upgraded. The push targets coal, containers, cement, fertilizers, rock phosphate and other bulk commodities. For passengers, the share is to rise from 5 percent to 7.52 percent after ML-1 upgradation is completed.
The modernisation programme includes upgrading the ML-1, ML-2 and ML-3 corridors. It also includes freight terminals, marshalling yards, multimodal logistics parks and upgraded passenger facilities at stations.
Digital plans include Wi-Fi at major stations, e-ticketing through the RABTA application, real-time train tracking, passenger complaint management, smart stations and automated command and control systems. RABTA is already fully functional and offers digital booking and payment. A SAP-based ERP system supports finances, procurement, inventory, stores, payroll and human resources.
Pakistan Railways also plans to outsource the management of selected hospitals and schools and to encourage more private-sector participation in commercial land development.
An official in the Ministry of Railways said the roadmap "focuses on strengthening freight operations, improving passenger services through infrastructure development, enhancing private-sector participation and accelerating digital transformation across the railway system."
The official added that greater private-sector participation "would help improve service delivery, attract investment and reduce the financial burden on the government while enhancing operational efficiency, service quality and revenue generation."
Why it matters for Pakistan
The plan concerns train services that passengers across Pakistan use, including booking and complaints through digital channels such as the RABTA app, which is already working. Businesses moving coal, cement, fertilizers and containers could see more freight capacity if the targets are met. The plan also aims to reduce the financial burden on the government.
Get khabr.pk news on Facebook and YouTube
Short news videos every day, and the day’s top stories in your feed.
