The National Assembly Standing Committee on Railways resolved to accelerate infrastructure renovations and enhance connectivity projects, including a new daily train service between Karachi and Hyderabad, during its 9th meeting held at the Divisional Superintendent Office, Karachi.
Chaired by Mr Rai Hassan Nawaz Khan, the session reviewed a broad range of railway development initiatives, with detailed briefings by Pakistan Railways officials and active participation from National Assembly members. A comprehensive report on the recent Jaffar Express incident was presented by the Ministry of Interior at the outset of the meeting.
One of the key highlights was the Thar Rail Connectivity Project, which the committee termed a “transformative initiative” for regional economic development. Plans for the restoration of the railway track and station in Khairpur district were also discussed, along with broader proposals for renovating major stations nationwide.
The committee examined suggestions to empower the Railway Police with greater authority to act against encroachments on railway land and reviewed the possibility of approaching the Supreme Court to address pending issues related to the Shalimar Trust Hospital in Lahore.
During the session, parliamentarians raised questions concerning railway expenses, revenue streams, operational bottlenecks, administrative measures, and unresolved legal cases involving railway officers. Officials provided assurances of transparency and committed to ongoing reforms.
MNA Dr Nafeesa Shah advocated for the preservation of historical railway structures in Khairpur, emphasizing their cultural significance. Speaking to the media after the meeting, she lamented the lack of adequate train services and restroom facilities in her district, urging government support. “Railways is our strategic asset and the Government of Pakistan should provide funds for it. Our country can only progress if the railways are working adequately,” she remarked.
Chairman Rai Hassan Nawaz Khan, in his media interaction, underlined the committee’s priorities, noting that the Thar Rail Connectivity Project would generate substantial income for the government. He pledged swift action on railway renovations and announced that a daily KarachiHyderabad train would soon be operational to benefit commuters. He further stated that efforts to eliminate illegal encroachments on railway properties were already underway.
The Standing Committee reaffirmed its commitment to overseeing reforms aimed at enhancing the efficiency, safety, and service quality of Pakistan Railways.