Islamabad: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has endorsed a comprehensive strategic roadmap aimed at reforming Pakistan Railways, with an emphasis on engaging internationally renowned experts and consultants to ensure effective implementation. The initiative seeks to increase market share in both passenger and freight segments while enhancing service quality and ensuring financial sustainability.

According to Radio Pakistan, the strategic roadmap includes measures to improve railway governance, promote digitization, expand railway lines, and strengthen regional connectivity. The plan also advocates for increased private sector participation through public-private partnerships to boost financial stability. The use of modern coaches, better passenger facilities, and the upgrading of railway tracks such as ML-1, ML-2, and ML-3 are included in the reform agenda.

During a meeting in Islamabad, Prime Minister Sharif highlighted the importance of encouraging private sector investment in the railway system to reduce traffic congestion on roads and decrease carbon emissions. He emphasized that a modern railway network would contribute to environmentally friendly transportation and drive economic activity.

Sharif directed that revenue generated from private investments on railway lands be allocated for further improvements to the railway system, underscoring the importance of developing Pakistan Railways to enhance regional connectivity.