Federal Minister for Railways Muhammad Hanif Abbasi has announced that Pakistan Railways’
revenue has increased from Rs88 billion to Rs115 billion. He said the department has crossed
the historic Rs100 billion mark for the first time.

The minister shared this update while inaugurating the transfer of Awam Express’s commercial
management to private company AA Enterprises at Rawalpindi Railway Station.
Hanif Abbasi said Pakistan Railways aims to increase its revenue to Rs160 billion in the
financial year 2025-26. He linked this growth to government reforms, partnerships with the
private sector, efforts to prevent theft and improvements in railway operations. He also said the
remaining administrative issues would be addressed by December 31.

Under the new public-private partnership model, AA Enterprises will manage the commercial
operations of the Awam Express, which runs between Peshawar and Karachi.

The minister said passenger facilities have also been improved. These include a premium
lounge dining car and better cleanliness and sanitation arrangements. He inspected the new
facilities and met passengers during his visit. He also joined a cake-cutting ceremony for Iqbal
Day at the Divisional Superintendent’s Office.

Abbasi also shared plans for further improvements across the railway network. These include
outsourcing the management of railway hospitals while continuing free medical treatment for
railway employees.

He said the department is also working to provide free Wi-Fi at 60 railway stations. Plans are
also underway to restore the historic Victorian-style architecture of Lahore and Rawalpindi
railway stations with support from the Punjab government.

The minister added that Pakistan Railways plans to reopen closed branch railway routes. The
department is also working on the ML-1 project with support from the Asian Development Bank
and the World Bank.

Later, Hanif Abbasi chaired a meeting with Rawalpindi Divisional Superintendent Nooruddin
Dawar. They reviewed the availability of railway coaches and train punctuality.
He also visited the Rawalpindi Loco Shed to inspect locomotive maintenance work and review
safety and maintenance procedures.

Source: Pakistan Railways / Statement by Federal Minister for Railways Muhammad Hanif
Abbasi.

Habib

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