Pakistan Railways has taken a significant step towards self-reliance by inducting 40 high-quality freight wagons locally manufactured through a technology transfer from China. This move reduces dependency on imports and conserves foreign exchange, marking a crucial milestone in the nation's transportation sector.
The new freight wagons, inaugurated at a railway station in the east Lahore district by CEO Aamir Ali Baloch, are designed to transport containers efficiently, enhancing their versatility. \"In the past, the low speed of freight trains resulted in considerable delays in the transportation of commercial goods. The inclusion of these new wagons in our fleet will increase the speed of freight trains to 100 kilometers per hour,\" said Baloch.
This advancement not only expedites freight services but is also expected to boost Pakistan Railways' freight revenue by over 9 billion rupees (about 32 million U.S. dollars) annually, providing much-needed financial stability to the institution. With China's continued cooperation, a total of 820 new wagons will be integrated into the railway system by the end of the fiscal year 2025-26.
The cooperation reflects Pakistan Railways' dedication to modernization and efficiency, setting a new standard in the country's transportation sector.
Reference(s):
China's technology transfer boosts self-reliance of Pakistan railways
cgtn.com
