Railways to Outsource 13 Passenger Trains by December 2023

News Desk

LAHORE: Pakistan Railways (PR) has announced plans to outsource 13 express passenger trains, including the Pak Business service, with a target completion date set for December 31, 2023.

This initiative aims to enhance operational efficiency and improve service delivery across the railway network.

Minister for Railways Hanif Abbasi emphasized the government’s commitment to maintaining railway infrastructure for safe operations. He stated, “It is the vision of the prime minister as well as mine to make all-out efforts to maintain the railway infrastructure for safe train operation.”

The minister has tasked his officers with ensuring that all faulty wagons are made operational and has initiated actions against vendors who have failed to deliver necessary parts on time.

The outsourcing of these trains is part of a broader strategy to revitalize the railway sector, which has faced numerous challenges in recent years.

By bringing in private operators, the government hopes to improve service quality and reduce operational costs, ultimately benefiting passengers and the economy.

Looking ahead, the process for outsourcing will include advertising and awarding contracts, with the aim of having the trains operational under new management by the end of the year.

Currently, six trains are already in commercial operation, and further updates are expected as the outsourcing process progresses.