ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif officially inaugurated the Pak Business Express and announced significant improvements to passenger facilities at Lahore Railway Station on Tuesday. He reiterated his commitment to modernizing Pakistan Railways into a reliable, efficient, and affordable transportation system accessible to all citizens, not just the privileged few.
During the event, the Prime Minister expressed satisfaction with the recent enhancements at the historic railway station, which he visited after a long period. The upgrades include a warm welcome for travelers, courteous staff, renovated VIP lounges, improved waiting areas, and a fully refurbished train featuring modern European-style dining and sleeping compartments, the official statement noted.
PM Shehbaz highlighted the digitization of ticketing processes, the introduction of Wi-Fi services, and the outsourcing of various functions to improve professionalism and service quality. “These improvements are aimed at serving the common people, ensuring that Pakistan Railways becomes a top-tier transportation option for both passengers and freight,” he stated.
He praised the efforts of Railways Minister Hanif Abbasi, Secretary, and Chairman Railways, along with the entire team involved in these developments. He also acknowledged the previous railway minister, Khawaja Muhammad Saad Rafique, for his 16 months of dedicated service.
The Prime Minister directed railway authorities to prioritize punctuality and transparently manage the leasing of railway land and services, transforming these assets into profitable ventures for the nation. He emphasized that the ongoing reforms should extend throughout the country—from Peshawar to Karachi, Rohri, and Quetta—aiming to establish a dependable network that meets international standards.“Guided by divine support and honest effort, this is just the beginning; with dedication and transparency, we can serve the people of Pakistan better,” he said. The newly launched Pak Business Express will run between Lahore and Karachi in approximately 18 hours and 30 minutes, with an economy fare of Rs 5,100.
In his speech, PM Shehbaz also paid homage to Pakistan’s armed forces for their valor during the recent four-day conflict with India, describing it as a “short but intensely perilous” war. He praised the military’s technological advancements, the Air Force’s innovations, the Army’s deployment of Al Fatah missiles, and the Navy’s preparedness, attributing the nation’s success to unity and teamwork.“While India relied solely on nuclear deterrence, Pakistan’s conventional military strength has proved its capability,” he asserted, reaffirming his dedication to national security and development.
Concluding the event, PM Shehbaz pledged to transform Pakistan Railways into a modern, transparent, and people-focused institution. “Together, we can turn railways into a driving force for progress and prosperity in Pakistan,” he affirmed
