Pakistan Railways to Outsource 11 More Passenger Trains Amid Modernization Drive

Pakistan Railways is preparing to outsource 11 additional passenger trains to private operators, building on the successful privatization of four trains earlier. This initiative, part of a broader Railway Improvement Project supported by a $10 million grant from the Asian Development Bank, is expected to generate an estimated Rs8.5 billion in additional revenue for the national rail system.

Alongside train operations, the government is also extending outsourcing to railway hospitals, schools, rest houses, and dry ports. Modernization efforts include upgrading stations with solar power, digital service portals, free Wi-Fi, AI-enabled surveillance systems, and online freight management platforms. These combined measures aim to enhance efficiency, improve passenger experience, and transform Pakistan Railways into a modern, technology-driven transport network capable of meeting contemporary operational standards.