Pakistan Railways continues to face significant operational and financial challenges, with annual losses of Rs. 1.1 billion ($3.5 million) due to fare evasion, according to Railways Minister Hanif Abbasi.
Speaking at a press conference in Islamabad, Abbasi acknowledged that fare evasion remains a critical issue despite recent monitoring improvements. “The 2023–24 Annual Report shows that fare evasion losses still hover near Rs. 1 billion annually,” he said. The problem has persisted despite efforts to tighten enforcement.
Pakistan Railways, one of the country’s oldest state-run institutions, has faced a steady decline in passenger numbers due to increased competition from road and air travel. Freight services have also struggled as businesses increasingly prefer trucks over trains.
To address the issue, Abbasi announced that non-paying passengers and involved staff would face strict penalties, including imprisonment. The vigilance department has been instructed to increase oversight and reduce losses through stronger enforcement.
Despite its challenges, the ministry is pushing forward with modernization plans. Over 200 new locomotives are being built at the Islamabad Carriage Factory to replace outdated engines and improve overall efficiency.
The government is also in discussions with the Asian Development Bank to secure funding for the Karachi–Rohri rail line upgrade, which spans 480 kilometers. Separately, track improvements are planned between Lahore and Rawalpindi, aimed at enhancing safety and reducing travel time.
Transport analysts argue that alongside infrastructure investments, Pakistan Railways must implement institutional reforms, curb internal corruption, and improve service delivery if it hopes to regain public and commercial confidence.
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