In a recent meeting at the Pakistan Railways (PR) headquarters, Caretaker Minister for Railways, Shahid Ashraf Tarar, laid out a vision for the future of the nation’s railways. Emphasizing safety, efficiency, and transparency, he outlined plans to modernize the aging railway infrastructure and ensure the welfare of employees. Simultaneously, Lahore Waste Management Company (LWMC) launched initiatives to combat environmental challenges, particularly the issue of smog.
Prioritizing Safety and Efficiency
Minister Shahid Ashraf Tarar recognizes that the outdated locomotives, passenger coaches, and goods’ wagons are hindrances to the progress of Pakistan’s railways. He has called for a viable plan to dispose of this old and non-usable rolling stock. Additionally, safety remains paramount in the minister’s vision, urging PR authorities to ensure the well-being of passengers, crew, and employees working at various workshops. He emphasizes the need for a transparent process in disposing of outdated equipment and calls for an effective business plan to enhance PR revenue and reduce expenditures.
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Revitalizing Railway Infrastructure
In pursuit of this vision, the minister emphasized the need to maintain railway tracks, particularly the Khanpur-Kotri-Khanpur portion of the existing ML-1 (main line-1). ML-1 is a crucial project that promises to revolutionize Pakistan’s rail network. Moreover, the minister envisions a shift to solar power to make the railways more sustainable and environmentally friendly.
Welfare of Railway Employees
Minister Tarar is committed to ensuring the well-being of railway employees. He has directed authorities to ensure on-time payment of salaries and pensions. Additionally, he has warned that officials responsible for accidents must be prepared to face action, further emphasizing the importance of passenger safety.
LWMC’s Battle Against Smog
On the environmental front, the Lahore Waste Management Company (LWMC) has launched a comprehensive campaign to combat the issue of smog in Lahore. Enforcement teams have been cracking down on waste burning, imposing fines exceeding Rs530,000 in the last month alone. LWMC has registered FIRs against individuals involved in waste burning and received over 100 complaints about such activities. Roadside cleaning initiatives have also been initiated to prevent dust emissions, contributing to a cleaner environment.
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Caretaker Minister Shahid Ashraf Tarar’s vision for Pakistan’s railways aims to transform an aging infrastructure into a modern and efficient transportation system while prioritizing safety and employee welfare. Simultaneously, the Lahore Waste Management Company’s efforts to combat smog underscore the importance of environmental responsibility. Together, these initiatives signify a step toward a brighter and cleaner future for Pakistan.