Railways Penalizes Over 97 Officials for Corruption

APP

Islamabad:  Pakistan Railways has penalized over 97 officials on corruption charges in the last five years as part of its efforts to curb malpractices within the department.

An official from the Ministry of Railways stated that several initiatives have been launched to control corruption, including the introduction of ticket vending machines and online ticket reservations to prevent black marketing.

In addition, the ministry has formed a task force to monitor irregularities and check staff attendance. Regular ticketless campaigns are conducted by Special Ticket Examiners (STEs) and officers across divisions, imposing penalties on passengers traveling without tickets.

The payment of pensions has also been shifted to an online banking system, aimed at facilitating pensioners and eliminating ghost pensioners from the department.

The official added that auctions are held transparently through designated committees, and funds are deposited through CDR, verified by Divisional Accounts Officers (DAO). Additionally, monthly “E-Kacheri” and “Khuli Kacheri” sessions are held to address grievances of staff, pensioners, and the public.

Vigilance offices have been established to handle corruption complaints, and regular performance review meetings ensure the timely resolution of disciplinary cases. Focal persons from all railway departments have also been assigned to address complaints reported through the Prime Minister’s Performance Delivery Unit (PMDU).