ISLAMABAD, May 29 (Alliance News): Federal Minister for Railways Muhammad Hanif Abbasi on Thursday announced that the government is fully committed to transforming Pakistan Railways through complete digitization, aiming to provide passengers with modern, transparent, and efficient services.
Presiding over a pre-budget meeting focused on digital reforms in the railways sector, the minister revealed that a comprehensive digitization framework for the period 2025–2030 has been finalized and will be a priority in the forthcoming federal budget.
He said the government plans to allocate sufficient financial resources to modernize railway infrastructure and improve operational performance and service delivery across the board.
The initiative will also promote collaboration through Government-to-Government (G2G) and Public-Private Partnership (PPP) models to encourage private sector participation in developing the railway sector.
As part of the reforms, the nationwide e-ticketing system will be expanded to ensure a fast, simple, and transparent experience for passengers. Additionally, funding will support the enhancement of the “Rabta” mobile app, designed to improve public access to railway services.
Other initiatives include investments in the branding of railway stations, foot overbridges, and key infrastructure to improve their visual appeal, along with dedicated resources for staff training programs to upgrade skills in line with modern demands.
The minister also approved steps to promote digital inclusion and transparency to ensure equal access for all citizens. Special resources will be earmarked for regular monitoring and evaluation to keep the project on track.
Hanif Abbasi emphasized that the 2025–2030 digital transformation plan would mark a new era for Pakistan’s transport infrastructure.
He also stressed the need for timely approval of the budget to effectively implement the proposed initiatives.
