IT is truly heartening to witness a visible change taking place within Pakistan Railways under Federal Minister for Railways, Hanif Abbasi.
Long regarded as a struggling public sector entity marred by inefficiency and chronic mismanagement, the national rail system now appears to be on a promising path toward reform, transparency and passenger-centric service delivery.
Hanif Abbasi’s hands-on approach, evident from his frequent visits to railway stations and interactions with passengers, is a clear indication of his commitment to improving the passenger experience. Perhaps the most encouraging sign of this transformation is the marked improvement in train punctuality—from a dismal 46% to over 86%—despite challenges such as outdated infrastructure. This substantial leap in performance reflects that true reform does not always hinge on large-scale investment. Rather, optimizing systems, enforcing accountability and harnessing the full potential of existing human resources can lead to significant progress. This is precisely what we are witnessing during Hanif Abbasi’s tenure. Equally commendable is the Minister’s emphasis on employee welfare. By declaring that railway workers are the “engine of Pakistan’s progress,” Abbasi has rightly recognized the importance of workforce motivation and rights protection. An empowered and motivated workforce is more likely to ensure better service delivery and uphold the institutional values of integrity and professionalism. In his broader vision, Hanif Abbasi is not only focusing on service delivery but also targeting deep-rooted structural issues. His strong stance against corruption and inefficiency, coupled with plans to strengthen the Vigilance Department and introduce third-party procurement oversight, sets a new precedent in public sector governance. The decision to outsource non-core operations such as hospitals, schools and some train services is a pragmatic step aimed at improving operational efficiency. Looking ahead, there is renewed hope that longstanding issues, such as the encroachment of railway land, will be effectively addressed. Reclaiming and utilizing this valuable land can significantly boost the revenue of Pakistan Railways and open avenues for commercial development. Moreover, the upgradation of ML-1 has the potential to truly transform Pakistan Railways into a modern, reliable transport backbone that not only meets domestic passenger needs but also supports regional trade and economic integration.
