Pakistan Railways Aims to Restore 36 Out of 172 Non-Operational Locomotives

Pakistan Railways aims to restore 36 of its 172 non-operational locomotives by June 2027 in an effort to enhance train operations and increase revenue. According to an official from the Ministry of Railways, the railway currently owns 439 locomotives, with 267 in service and 172 out of commission. Several initiatives have been undertaken to bring the non-functional engines back online, with 16 locomotives anticipated to become operational by February 2027 and another 20 following major overhauls by the end of 2026.

One locomotive, number 9021, is set to return to service by June 2027 after necessary repairs and modifications. The Ministry has reached out to the original equipment manufacturer (OEM) to evaluate the restoration of an additional 69 locomotives. A proposal for modernizing 35 locomotives has been submitted to the Ministry of Planning but awaits consideration.

Restoring the locomotives is expected to boost engine availability, strengthen train services, and contribute to the railway's growth in passenger and freight earnings. Alongside engine restoration, the department has upgraded onboard amenities and station infrastructure across the network. Luxury dining cars and modern coaches now operate on various high-traffic trains, including LED screens, water dispensers, and comprehensive janitorial services.

Premium dining cars on select trains offer complimentary high tea, bedding, newspapers, hygiene kits, and mineral water. Hostesses have been introduced on the Islamabad Express for added service. At stations, escalators have been installed in Karachi and Lahore, information desks and free Wi-Fi cover stations handling a majority of passenger traffic.

Waiting halls have been upgraded at major cities, and a new multi-story Train Dispatching Building has been completed at Lahore station. Modern Customer Information Points (CIP) lounges operate at major stations, with extensive renovation at Peshawar Cantt Station. Cleanliness agreements with provincial waste management companies ensure hygienic platforms and washrooms in urban areas.

The railway has installed ticket vending machines, electronic information boards, and made accommodations for wheelchair users and passengers with disabilities. Concessional fares are provided for students, senior citizens, journalists, and persons with disabilities.