LAHORE (MNN); A high-level meeting chaired by Senior Provincial Minister Maryam Aurangzeb and Federal Minister for Railways Hanif Abbasi reviewed collaboration between Pakistan Railways and the Punjab government.
Under the vision of Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif, it was decided to restore nine railway routes across Punjab. Officials said joint projects between Punjab and Pakistan Railways would benefit over 80 million citizens.
The meeting reviewed progress on the Lahore–Rawalpindi fast train and the revamping of key railway tracks, which is expected to significantly reduce accidents. Work on upgrading Lahore Railway Station is also underway, following special directives from the chief minister.
Participants discussed signing an MoU after the feasibility study of eight suburban loops by NESPAK. Progress on green belts near Kasur railway stations, including Kadian Khas, was also reviewed.
Authorities considered outsourcing cleanliness operations of major stations in Lahore, Rawalpindi, and Multan to solid waste management companies. Plans to develop forests along railway tracks were also discussed, with directions to complete the initiative within one year, monitored through the “Plant Doctor” app.
Officials from archaeology briefed the meeting on establishing state-of-the-art cafés at railway stations. Ministers later visited Lahore Railway Station to review remodeling work, parking, waiting areas, mosques, and other passenger facilities.
Speaking on the occasion, Maryam Aurangzeb emphasized timely completion of projects and directed weekly progress reviews. She also interacted with citizens at the station to understand their concerns, reaffirming the government’s commitment to improving public transport facilities.
