CORRUPTION and maladministration are among the most destructive forces that can paralyse the operations of any institution.
When left unchecked, they erode efficiency, stall development and shatter public trust.
Pakistan Railways has for decades been a victim of precisely these ills.
It is, therefore, heartening to witness the renewed focus on transparency and accountability by the Federal Minister for Railways, Hanif Abbasi.
In a recent high-level meeting, Hanif Abbasi laid out a comprehensive roadmap to root out corruption, inefficiency and nepotism from within the ranks of Pakistan Railways.
Empowering the vigilance department, initiating third-party evaluations for all procurements, and ensuring accountability at every level signal the beginning of a long-overdue clean-up operation.
These measures are not only commendable but essential to revive a department that has long been bogged down by systemic failures.
Equally praiseworthy is the Minister’s insistence on the timely arrival of trains.
Delays have become synonymous with Pakistan Railways, causing immense inconvenience to passengers.
Despite a continued preference for train travel due to cost and comfort—many travellers have switched to buses or other modes of transport simply because they can no longer rely on train schedules.
Restoring punctuality is not just a logistical improvement—it is about rebuilding public confidence and trust in one of the most essential public services.
Furthermore, the Minister’s attention to passenger amenities, such as cleanliness and the provision of hygienic food, reflects an understanding of the everyday issues faced by travellers.
These may seem like minor details, but they play a crucial role in shaping the overall image and reliability of the railway service.
However, institutional reforms and administrative vigilance alone are not enough.
Pakistan Railways must also embark on a strategic and aggressive upgradation of its outdated infrastructure.
The long-delayed Main Line-1 (ML-1) project—stretching from Karachi to Peshawar—must be pursued with renewed determination and urgency.
This upgradation is pivotal, not only to enhance the speed and safety of rail travel but to enable the induction of modern trains that can significantly reduce travel times and operational costs.
A fully modernized ML-1 would be a game-changer for Pakistan Railways, transforming it into a viable and competitive mode of transportation.
Reduced travel durations, increased freight capacity, and enhanced passenger experience would, in turn, lead to a surge in revenues, ultimately steering the department towards profitability.
