Railways minister reaffirms commitment to PPPs for efficiency and growth

• Hanif Abbasi, Mian Mansha underscore private-sector role in modernizing Pakistan Railways

• Minister tells Nishat Group chief new infrastructure, freight, and commercial ventures open to private investment

 LAHORE: Federal Minister for Railways Muhammad Hanif Abbasi on Saturday reaffirmed the government’s commitment to adopting international best practices in public-private collaboration to modernize Pakistan Railways, enhance operational efficiency, and create viable investment opportunities for the private sector, according to an official statement.

“Pakistan Railways is actively working to achieve the targets set by the Prime Minister by opening new avenues for private sector participation in infrastructure development, freight services, and commercial ventures,” the statement quoted Federal Minister Hanif Abbasi as saying.

The minister made the remarks during a meeting with Nishat Group Chairperson Mian Muhammad Mansha, who visited Pakistan Railways Headquarters on Saturday.

During the meeting, Minister Abbasi briefed Mian Muhammad Mansha on Pakistan Railways’ ongoing and upcoming initiatives under the framework of public-private partnerships (PPP), emphasizing that these efforts are aimed at strengthening the financial sustainability of Pakistan Railways while simultaneously contributing to national economic growth.

Following the discussions, the minister accompanied Mian Muhammad Mansha on a tour of various sections of Pakistan Railways Headquarters.

The Nishat Group Chairman was shown the newly established conference and monitoring facility, which serves as a central hub for operational oversight and strategic coordination. He also visited the Business Facilitation Centre, recently set up to provide a dedicated platform for the business community. The centre offers one-window facilitation for investors, freight customers, and commercial partners, assisting with information, coordination, and resolution of queries related to Pakistan Railways’ commercial and partnership opportunities.

Mian Muhammad Mansha appreciated the efforts undertaken by Federal Minister Abbasi, stating that under his leadership Pakistan Railways is moving forward on a clear path of growth and development. He encouraged investors and the business community to explore opportunities with Pakistan Railways, noting that this is the right time to invest as the organization expands and opens new avenues for partnership.

He also reaffirmed the Nishat Group’s commitment to invest in Pakistan Railways, assuring the Federal Minister that concrete collaboration opportunities would be explored in the near future.

The meeting concluded with a shared understanding on the importance of stronger public-private collaboration to unlock the full potential of Pakistan Railways and position it as a modern, efficient, and investor-friendly national transport institution.