ISLAMABAD: Pakistan Railways has started upgradation of five major railway stations across country on modern lines to facilitate passengers and help department to generate more revenue.

According to Railways official, stations included Karachi, Lahore, Faisalabad, Peshawar and Quetta, while department was taking other steps to improve performance of Pakistan Railways and would provide maximum facilities to passengers. “Purpose is to make them commercial hubs for business activities and facilitate passengers,” an official in Ministry of Railways told APP.

Official noted that government has allocated Rs 50 million in Public Sector Development Programme in last three years for up-gradation and renovation of railway stations across country. Official said renovation of railway stations had been approved by Central Development Working Party and department had already upgraded six railway stations in different parts of country.

Names of upgraded railway stations were Bahawalpur, Raiwind, Narowal, Okara, Sahiwal and Gujranwala. Basic aim of upgradation was to facilitate passengers and improve outlook and modernise them. Pakistan Railways had upgraded passenger waiting halls, prayer area, operation offices, water filtration plant, toilets, passenger shelter, platforms, ticket counters, parking area and external development work.

Meanwhile, chairing meeting here, caretaker Railways Minister Shahid Ashraf Tarar said Pakistan Railways is pursuing three pronged strategy i.e. safety, efficiency and self-reliance for its revival and expansion. He said existing infrastructure, rolling stock, factories and railway stations will be improved through private sector investments. Minister said Pakistan Railways took several initiatives to cut cost and enhance its revenue.

Published in The Daily National Courier, October, 04 2023

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