KARACHI: The Sir Syed Express, running between Rawalpindi and Karachi, will be resumed from Sept 1.

This was stated by Pakistan Railways (PR) CEO Amir Ali Baloch while responding to public queries in an e-Kachehri (online meeting) on Monday.

He said the Shalimar Express already had enough stops, and no more stops could be added. Regarding the request to change the route of the Millat Express, Mr Baloch said the train was running with 100 per cent booking and was profitable, therefore, neither its route nor its timing could be changed.

Talking about adding facilities during travel, he said: “The public-private partnership model is successful worldwide, and we are heading in that direction. Involving the private sector in train operations will not only enhance facilities for passengers, but also stabilise railway revenue.”

Railways heading towards public-private partnership model, says CEO

He also said the private operators would have to meet PR’s established standards to run trains. “Relevant officers have been instructed to ensure that the air conditioning in AC coaches remains operational without interruption. Any complaints will result in action against those responsible,” he said.

“Railway employees have breathed life into the organisation with their hard work, and now the wheels of the train will keep moving,” he added.

Mr Baloch stated that the organisation could not continue operating any loss-making train or stops at any location that did not meet the minimum revenue benchmark. He mentioned that all available resources were currently in use, which reflected the passengers’ trust in the organisation. “We will strive to meet our passengers’ expectations. This year we aim at boosting income through freight and other means.”

He said that premium dining cars and air-conditioned restrooms were being well-received, and more premium lounge dining cars would be added to other trains. Additionally, air-conditioned executive restrooms would be built at 13 major stations within the next three months, he added.

Published in Dawn, July 9th, 2024