Senate panel questions Pakistan Railways’ outsourcing policies and public-private partnership models

The Senate Standing Committee on Railways raised concerns about the outsourcing policies and public-private partnership models adopted by Pakistan Railways during its recent meeting in Islamabad. 

According to media reports, Senator Rubina Khalid questioned the rationale behind implementing models that are not widely practiced internationally, calling for more transparency in their adoption.

The committee requested a thorough briefing on Pakistan Railways’ outsourcing practices at the next meeting, to better understand the procedures and outcomes. Senator Khalid also voiced her concerns regarding the closure of trains in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, emphasizing the need for uniform railway infrastructure development across all provinces.

The committee expressed disappointment over the absence of Railways Minister Hanif Abbasi and senior officials, despite prior assurances of attendance. Members noted that the working papers provided to them were incomplete and not submitted 72 hours in advance as required. 

The chairman of the committee, Jam Saifullah Khan, announced that the next meeting will be held in Peshawar, specifically to review railway projects and facilities in the province.

Senator Khalid also highlighted the strategic importance of the Afghan transit trade and urged for the extension of railway access to Torkham Pass to improve regional connectivity. The committee called for a comprehensive briefing on railway gauges to evaluate the best system for connecting Pakistan to its neighboring countries.

Senator Shahadat Awan raised concerns about missing details from a police report related to alleged corruption amounting to billions of rupees within the railways sector. Despite repeated requests, the committee has yet to receive the complete information, which Awan deemed highly inappropriate.

In the wake of the ongoing flood situation, the committee was informed that while most old bridges had survived the impact, some sectors, like Narowal–Sialkot, were temporarily affected but had since been restored. 

Senator Awan also raised the issue of restoring the Budhal Express train between Rohri and Jacobabad, as well as the Mandra-Chakwal railway line. He stressed that the suspension of these services has forced passengers to incur high costs for road travel.

In response to these issues, the chairman reiterated the need for transparency, directing that in the next meeting, the minister, secretary, Inspector General, and DIG Railways must be present to provide detailed briefings. The committee also insisted that all future working papers be properly prepared and submitted in a timely manner.