Quetta: Federal Minister for Railways Muhammad Hanif Abbasi and Chief Minister Balochistan Mir Sarfraz Bugti inaugurated the Jinnah Peoples Train Service, a significant public transport project designed to offer safe and affordable travel options in Balochistan.

According to Press Information Department, the project was a collaborative effort between the Government of Balochistan and Pakistan Railways, involving the upgrade and restoration of a 32-kilometre railway track from Sariab to Kuchlak at an estimated cost of Rs. 3 billion. The train route includes seven stations: Kuchlak, Baleli, Sheikh Manda, GOR Halt, Quetta, Lora Karez Halt, and Sariab. Development and upgradation works were completed at these stations to enhance passenger facilities.

The project featured the installation of new turntables at Sariab and Kuchlak stations, along with various improvements at other stations. The coaches for the service were manufactured at the Pakistan Railways Carriage Factory in Islamabad within four months.

Federal Minister Abbasi acknowledged the support from Chief Minister Bugti and the provincial government, emphasizing the importance of the service in providing modern travel facilities and fostering national connectivity. Chief Minister Bugti expressed satisfaction with the launch, highlighting the service’s role in improving public transport for various segments of the population, including students, employees, and traders.