Pakistan Railways takes FC on board for securing land, tracks

LAHORE: The Ministry of Interior has agreed to deploy the Federal Constabulary (FC) to assist Pakistan Railways (PR) in safeguarding railway tracks, rolling stock, and reclaiming valuable commercial land from illegal occupants across major cities. The move comes in a bid to strengthen security and curb land encroachments.

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During a meeting held at the Pakistan Railways headquarters, Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi assured Railways Minister Hanif Abbasi of full support from the FC for joint operations aimed at retrieving railway land that has been illegally seized, particularly in urban centers.

“We are ready to provide you with FC troops to initiate coordinated efforts to free our railway land from grabbers in key cities,” Naqvi told Abbasi, adding that such measures would also include tackling encroachments around the railway’s valuable assets.

The federal force will be tasked with ensuring the security of railway infrastructure, including railway lines, stations, and trains.

This move comes amidst continued challenges faced by the railways with regards to land theft and security threats, particularly in volatile regions like Balochistan.

DMU SHUTTLE SERVICE ON CARDS

According to a news report by DAWN News, the two ministries have also agreed to introduce a Diesel Multiple Unit (DMU) shuttle service between Islamabad and Rawalpindi, designed to improve commuter convenience between the twin cities. Naqvi promised that the Capital Development Authority (CDA) would soon collaborate with railway officials to discuss the shuttle’s implementation.

The DMU trains, designed to provide a more efficient and comfortable commuting experience, will consist of small locomotives attached to modern passenger coaches, with a capacity to carry around 400 passengers.

TRAIN SERVICE REMAINS SUSPENDED

Meanwhile, the train service between Quetta and Peshawar continues to remain suspended for the second day today, Railway officials said on Tuesday. The train service has been suspended in view of the flood situation.

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Jaffar Express did not leave Quetta for Peshawar for the second day today. However, Chaman Passenger from Quetta has left on its scheduled time, Railway officials said.