WEBDESK: Pakistan Railways is all set to launch a brand-new, high-tech business train this month.
According to the reports, the inauguration is scheduled for July 19, and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif will formally launch the service at a ceremony in Lahore.
The train will have 28 coaches fitted with digital facilities, free Wi-Fi internet service and dining car designed to international standards among others, to ensure passengers enjoy a contemporary and comfortable journey.
This move is part of a wider effort by Pakistan Railways (PR) to modernise its services and make rail travel more efficient and passenger-friendly.
The step can be seen as a huge leap towards modernisation, making such facilities more approachable and usable for the people.
Such trains mark a major step towards modernising public transport in Pakistan. With features like digitally equipped coaches, free Wi-Fi, and international-standard dining, they enhance passenger comfort and convenience.
The continuous upgrade plan involves digital ticketing systems, enhanced facilities on board, and enhanced newer facilities in the nationwide stations. The goal, according to officials, is to bring more passenger satisfaction and streamline operations on all levels.
These modernizations do not only enhance travel experiences, but also help in bringing more commuters into the financial systems, facilitate economic activity, and express national improvements in infrastructure.
Pakistan Railways: Outsourcing plans for train services
In a separate development, Pakistan Railways has also decided to outsource several services, including the commercial management of passenger trains.
An official from the Ministry of Railways revealed that over the last three years, the department earned more than Rs3,959 million through the operation of brake and luggage vans.
“These operations were carried out both directly by Pakistan Railways and through outsourcing to private contractors,” the official told state-run APP.
He explained that the luggage vans were outsourced through a transparent bidding process, adding, “The outsourcing is done via open tenders which are publicly advertised by the department.”
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