The first consignment of 23 locomotives from China will arrive today for use in freight operations.
According to a Pakistan Railways official, the freight train operations will be increased gradually. He said by the end of this year, at least six freight trains would be made operational which would help generate revenue of Rs 20 to 25 million per day.
At present, three to four freight trains are being operated on daily basis, which have increased revenue, he added. He said the entire fleet of locomotives had outlived their utility and the older locomotives needed to be replaced with new ones as soon as possible.
On the directive of Minister for Railways Khawaja Saad Rafique, he said all out efforts were being made to ensure timely arrival and departure of trains and make Pakistan Railways a profitable organisation. He added that dedication and hard work was required to steer the department out of challenges.
Private investment would be welcomed where it was needed and it would be done through a transparent method, he added. The official said steps were being taken to utilise the Railways land in most efficient way. He said the department was also going for computerising data of its lands.
