ISLAMABAD: The Senate Standing Committee on Railways convened under the leadership of Senator Shahadat Awan at the Old PIPS Hall in Islamabad to review compliance with previous recommendations and discuss the legal and operational challenges faced by Pakistan Railways. The meeting focused on the Ministry’s litigation status, anti-encroachment efforts, and the travel concession facility for journalists.

According to Senate of Pakistan, the session was attended by Senators Dost Ali Jeesar and Kamil Ali Agha, Federal Minister for Railways Muhammad Hanif Abbasi, and senior officials from the Ministry of Railways, Pakistan Railway Board, and Railways police. The Committee expressed dissatisfaction with the Ministry’s management of legal cases, highlighting discrepancies in the reported number of cases and the lack of information on theft, misappropriation, and embezzlement. Concerns were also raised about the performance of the Pakistan Railways’ legal department and the need for a structured case management system.

During the meeting, the Minister highlighted efforts to tackle illegal encroachments and improve departmental performance. However, the Committee emphasized the need for comprehensive updates on pending cases and better coordination in legal representation. It also received briefings on journalist travel concessions and addressed issues related to the Gadani Bridge in Sukkur, urging collaboration with local authorities for its construction. The meeting concluded with a call for action to ensure transparency and accountability in Pakistan Railways’ operations.