By Dr. Ansab Ali
Lahore, Pakistan

KHANEWAL: Pakistan Railways is being transformed on modern lines under the special directives of Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif, with the government taking practical measures to improve passenger services as well as facilities for railway employees.

Federal Minister for Railways Muhammad Hanif Abbasi said that Pakistan Railways had been turned into a profitable institution for the first time in its 79-year history. He was speaking to locomotive pilots after inaugurating newly renovated and modern Loco Pilot Running Rooms in Khanewal. MNA Muhammad Khan Daha and senior Pakistan Railways officials were also present.

The Federal Minister said railway land had previously been leased out at extremely low rates. After assuming charge, he introduced an open auction system, which helped increase Railways’ profit from Rs8 billion to Rs16 billion.

He further stated that Pakistan Railways generated revenue of Rs115.157 billion during the financial year 2025-26, describing the increase as an encouraging development and a reflection of ongoing reforms.

Muhammad Hanif Abbasi, accompanied by senior railway officials, formally inaugurated the new Loco Pilot and Guards Running Rooms. He inspected the facilities and reviewed arrangements made for railway employees.

The newly upgraded running rooms have been equipped with modern facilities, including fully air-conditioned rooms, accommodation, modern dining halls, kitchens, stoves, mosques and solar power systems. The accommodation has been developed to provide railway employees with a comfortable environment comparable to five-star hotel standards.

Speaking on the occasion, Muhammad Hanif Abbasi said providing modern facilities to railway employees was among the government’s priorities. He said locomotive pilots and guards were an essential part of railway operations and deserved comfortable accommodation and adequate rest facilities so they could perform their duties efficiently and safely.

He said that, under the special directives of Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif, practical steps were being taken to modernize Pakistan Railways. Along with improving facilities for passengers, the government was also focusing on the welfare and working conditions of railway employees.

The Federal Minister expressed confidence that continued improvements in the railway system and service standards would restore and strengthen public confidence in Pakistan Railways, encourage more people to prefer rail travel and ultimately contribute to further growth in departmental revenue.

During his visit, Muhammad Hanif Abbasi also had a meal with locomotive pilots at the running room and advised them to perform their duties with dedication, hard work and honesty. He directed the concerned staff to ensure timely oil changes and proper servicing of locomotives to minimize engine failures and related complaints.

The locomotive pilots and guards expressed gratitude to Federal Minister Muhammad Hanif Abbasi and Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif for providing modern facilities at the running rooms. They termed the initiative a historic step for the welfare of Pakistan Railways employees and raised slogans in support of Federal Minister Muhammad Hanif Abbasi, Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif and Pakistan.