Shehbaz pushes expert-led plan for rail links and connectivity
“PM Shehbaz called for international-standard expertise to modernise railways and improve regional links.”
Key points
- PM Shehbaz called for international-standard expertise to modernise railways and improve regional links.
- He pressed for PPPs, faster reforms and digital upgrades.
- Officials briefed him on ongoing automation, security and revenue initiatives.
ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif directed officials to bring on board legal and economic experts of international calibre to accelerate projects that strengthen regional connectivity and Pakistan Railways’ international routes.
Chairing a high-level meeting, the premier called modern rail infrastructure the backbone of economic activity and urged faster reforms, efficiency gains and adoption of global best practices. He pushed for using public–private partnerships for rail property and land while appreciating ongoing steps to restore the system.
Officials briefed the meeting on digitisation efforts under the ‘Rabta’ initiative, expansion of free Wi-Fi at stations, online freight booking and AI-enabled surveillance. They also cited revenue measures through outsourcing cargo services and facilities, progress on solarising stations, and planning for corridor upgrades including ML-1 segments and prospective links such as Islamabad–Tehran–Istanbul.
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