Railways Minister Dismisses AG Report, Claims Rs115 Billion Revenue Achievement]
RAWALPINDI: Federal Railways Minister Muhammad Hanif Abbasi on Monday dismissed the Auditor General of Pakistan’s report on railway revenue losses, asserting that the department successfully achieved its target of Rs115 billion in the current fiscal year.
Speaking to media representatives during the inauguration of newly constructed guard running rooms and driver accommodations at the railway locomotive shed, Abbasi challenged theAG’s findings.
“The Auditor General’s report attempted to constrain railway development. The claimed 19 percent deficit is incorrect. As Railways Minister, I reversed the performance trajectory within four months—contrasting with the previous five years,” he stated.
The minister highlighted cost reduction measures, noting that operating expenses decreased by Rs3.6 billion over four months. “This reduction represents profit. The Rs63 billion pension allocation comes from government funds. Pensioners remain vital to our system, and we aim to ensure direct government payment going forward,” he explained.
Abbasi clarified revenue figures, stating Pakistan Railways did not achieve Rs100 billion, with five trains having been outsourced. “No free tickets were distributed. By the final fiscal year day, we reached the Rs115 billion target,” he confirmed.
Regarding institutional reforms, the minister emphasized ongoing digitalization efforts and infrastructure upgrades. “Complete train modernization is targeted by June 2027,” he said.
Future projects include advancing the ML-3 project from Rohri to Zahedan, with Economic Coordination Committee approval secured. Rawalpindi Railway Station renovation, modeled after Lahore’s facility, is slated for completion by December.
The minister confirmed no fare increases for passenger or freight services, attributing limitations to petroleum price fluctuations. Power van rehabilitation is progressing, with 16 new units expected by March 23 next year.
Earlier, Abbasi inaugurated air-conditioned, solar-powered running rooms for railway personnel—the first such upgrades in 36 years. Similar facilities will expand to major cities nationwide.
