Recent rains affect railway operations: CEO

LAHORE: The train operations have been affected by recent rains and floods, but significant improvements are expected once the weather stabilizes.

“A heavy fine has been imposed on a contractor, who was caught storing ice in a train restroom, as such negligence cannot be tolerated. We are planning to invest in busy sections across the country, including Dadu and Larkana.

The government’s approval of the ML-1 project signifies better days for the railways. Based on our strong performance, the ministry has set a revenue target of Rs1 trillion and 9 billion, which we are confident of achieving.” These remarks were made by the CEO of Pakistan Railways, Amir Ali Baloch, during a Facebook live session while responding to public queries. The CEO stated that the feasibility study and paperwork for the Karachi Circular Railway have been completed. He noted that urban transport systems worldwide are usually operated by provincial or local governments, and thus, the completion of the Karachi Circular Railway project depends on the Sindh government. He also mentioned that the parts for new coaches have arrived in Pakistan and are currently being assembled. These coaches are expected to be added to the system by September, enhancing the train services.

Amir Ali Baloch issued directives to increase the number of sheds and fans at Piplan Station. He also instructed the commercial department to include a stop for the Awam Express at Chaklala.

Following complaints about the public address system at Lahore Railway Station, the DS Lahore was directed to ensure the system operates according to SOPs. The CEO rejected the proposal to change the timings of the Rehman Baba train, stating that it would not be wise to experiment with a profitable and popular service.

Addressing complaints about the non-functional air conditioning in AC coaches, Baloch acknowledged that the air conditioning systems are outdated. However, efforts and available resources have been utilized to repair them. He also announced plans to gradually replace the air conditioning systems in all coaches, ensuring that passengers will soon no longer have issues with the AC in these coaches.

In response to a question, the CEO clarified that after the floods two years ago, Pakistan Railways staff rebuilt the entire track of the Sibi-Harnai section, which is now operational. He dismissed recent social media posts showing images of the damaged section as outdated, taken during the floods. The e-kacheri session attracted over thirteen thousand participants and received eleven thousand comments.