Pakistan Railways to upgrade services with 820 freight wagons, 230 passenger coaches

LAHORE: Pakistan Railways (PR) is in the process of upgrading its services by purchasing 820 high-capacity freight wagons and 230 passenger coaches. This step is aimed at improving train speeds, ensuring punctual service, and increasing cargo operations to boost revenue.

At a meeting of the National Assembly Standing Committee on Railways, chaired by Rai Hassan Nawaz Khan, the Railway Board secretary provided an update on these developments. He shared that these new wagons and coaches will not only help increase train speeds but also improve punctuality and overall service, benefiting both passengers and cargo operations.

The committee members also paid their respects to the victims of the tragic Jaffar Express incident and expressed disappointment over the absence of the Ministry of Interior’s secretary. They stressed the need for the official to attend the next meeting to provide a briefing on the incident.

Additionally, they decided to hold a private briefing on the matter with the Minister for Railways, the inspector general of Pakistan Railways Police, and a representative from the Ministry of Interior. The rescue teams involved in the operation were praised for their courageous efforts.

The Railway Board secretary also briefed the committee on two major projects currently underway: the procurement of 820 freight wagons and 230 passenger coaches, and the Thar Rail Connectivity Project.

He noted that the cost for the freight wagons had increased from Rs9.481 billion to Rs17.575 billion, and so far, 430 wagons have been received. The remaining 390 wagons are expected to be ready by December 31, 2025. These wagons have enhanced capacity and improved operational efficiency.

As for the passenger coaches, their cost has risen from Rs21.712 billion to Rs53.392 billion. Out of the 230 coaches, 46 have already been delivered, with the remaining 184 expected by June 30, 2027. These new coaches are designed to offer better standards and increased load capacity.

The Thar Rail Connectivity Project, approved in May 2024, is being executed as a joint venture between Pakistan Railways and the Sindh government. Both parties are sharing the Rs53.726 billion cost equally, with the project slated for completion within two years. The committee was also shown visuals of the progress on both projects.

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