Islamabad (MNN):
Federal Minister for Railways Muhammad Hanif Abbasi held a meeting with Punjab Senior Minister Maryam Aurangzeb at the Ministry of Railways to review progress on ongoing joint development projects and discuss future initiatives being undertaken in collaboration between the Government of Punjab and Pakistan Railways.
The meeting reviewed progress on eight suburban railway routes planned across Punjab. Officials informed the participants that feasibility studies for three routes have been completed, while studies for the remaining projects are expected to be finalized soon, paving the way for the commencement of construction.
The meeting was informed that the Punjab Government has approved PKR 9.7 billion for the upgradation of railway level crossings. Under the project, unsafe level crossings will be converted into manned crossings in phases, significantly enhancing public safety and reducing the risk of accidents.
Participants also received a detailed briefing on the Punjab Chief Minister’s Green Railway Corridor initiative. Under the project, tree plantation will be carried out along more than 40 kilometers of railway corridor to promote a greener environment and help reduce pollution.
Progress under the Suthra Punjab Programme for improving cleanliness at railway stations was also reviewed. Officials stated that cleaning operations are continuing effectively, with dedicated staff working around the clock to provide passengers with a cleaner and more pleasant travel environment.
The meeting further reviewed the upgradation of the circulating area at Lahore Railway Station. Officials said the project has entered its final phase and is expected to be completed next month, providing passengers with improved facilities and better accessibility.
Discussions were also held on the Chief Minister Punjab Railway Heritage Preservation Initiative. In its first phase, the project will focus on preserving, restoring, and beautifying the historic railway stations of Lahore, Rawalpindi, and Taxila.
Speaking on the occasion, Federal Minister for Railways Muhammad Hanif Abbasi said that, for the first time in the history of Pakistan Railways, a provincial government is making such significant investments in railway development projects. He described the partnership as a model of effective cooperation between the federal and provincial governments.
He added that with the support of the Punjab Government, projects aimed at improving railway infrastructure, passenger facilities, safety measures, environmental sustainability, and heritage conservation will be completed at an accelerated pace, delivering tangible benefits to the public in the near future.
