February 10, 2025 Islamabad (Kamran Raja) :
In collaboration with Pakistan Railways, the Sindh government has launched the Karachi to Thar Desert Safari tourist train. The cooperation of provincial governments is essential for the restoration of more tourist trains, as the required funds for tourism are allocated to the provinces. These views were expressed by the Chief Executive Officer of Pakistan Railways, Aamir Ali Baloch, while responding to public queries during an e-Kachehri (online public forum).
The CEO of Pakistan Railways stated that Pakistan Railways is a federal institution, and providing the best travel facilities to passengers is its top priority. However, public cooperation in maintaining cleanliness is also indispensable. He urged passengers to dispose of food waste and other trash only in designated bins to ensure the cleanliness of trains and stations.
Aamir Ali Baloch further explained that launching new trains requires substantial resources. As soon as the necessary resources become available, the process of introducing new trains will commence. Significant work remains on the ML-2 railway line, and suspended train services will also be gradually restored as resources allow.
Responding to a question regarding the restoration of the Landi Kotal railway track, the CEO of Pakistan Railways stated that the rehabilitation of the railway track from Peshawar to Landi Kotal would cost over 10 billion rupees. The project will proceed as soon as the required funds are available.
The Chief Executive Officer also directed improvements to the railway’s mobile application to make it more user-friendly, ensuring that passengers do not face any difficulties.
Regarding the improvement of railway schools, the CEO stated that efforts are ongoing to enhance the quality of education in Pakistan Railways’ schools so that the children of railway employees receive a high standard of education.
More than 88,000 people participated in the e-Kachehri, and approximately 7,800 comments were received.