Independent Report
Quetta: Federal Minister for Railways, Hanif Abbasi, on Tuesday celebrated the transfer of railway services to provincial administrations as a historic step, marking a first in Pakistan Railways’ 78-year history. Abbasi described the move as a demonstration of growing trust and collaboration between the federal government and the provinces.
While several provinces expressed interest in assuming control of local rail operations, Abbasi highlighted that Balochistan has emerged at the forefront. He attributed this achievement to the strategic vision and dynamic leadership of Chief Minister Balochistan, Mir Sarfraz Bugti.
The announcement came during a high-level joint meeting co-chaired by CM Bugti and Minister Abbasi at the Chief Minister’s Secretariat. Discussions centered on revitalizing Balochistan’s railway network, launching the People’s Train Service, and advancing a series of collaborative development projects between the provincial government and Pakistan Railways.
Both parties agreed to move forward with joint initiatives, with the People’s Train Service positioned as a flagship project of federal-provincial cooperation. Abbasi lauded the program, emphasizing its potential to deliver safe, affordable, and high-quality travel to the public, while modernizing Balochistan’s rail system under an efficient and sustainable framework guided by CM Bugti.
Speaking at the meeting, CM Bugti reiterated the provincial government’s commitment to ensuring rapid progress on the People’s Train Service. He announced that Rs1.4 billion would be allocated within the week for the project, earmarked for constructing new stations and upgrading existing infrastructure. Bugti also revealed plans to expand the route beyond the successful Sariab–Kuchlak line, extending services to Mastung, Pishin, and other areas across the province.
Following the discussions, CM Bugti and Minister Abbasi visited the Railways Football Ground, where they agreed to support sports initiatives and explore additional development projects on Pakistan Railways’ property.
CM Bugti stressed that revitalizing the railway network and guaranteeing accessible, reliable, and safe travel remain top priorities for the provincial administration. He underscored that sustained coordination with federal authorities will be crucial in realizing these goals.
