Punjab Government and Pakistan Railways Launch Joint Initiative to Restore Historic Railway Stations

RAWALPINDI: The Punjab government and Pakistan Railways have announced a joint initiative to preserve, restore, and beautify the historic railway stations in Lahore, Rawalpindi, and Taxila as part of broader efforts to modernize railway infrastructure and improve passenger services.

The announcement was made during a meeting between Federal Minister for Railways Hanif Abbasi and Punjab Senior Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb, where officials reviewed the progress of ongoing railway development projects and discussed future plans.

Focus on Railway Infrastructure

During the meeting, Hanif Abbasi said the collaboration represents an important example of cooperation between the federal and provincial governments. He noted that Punjab is supporting several railway development projects aimed at improving infrastructure and public services.

Marriyum Aurangzeb said the joint initiatives are expected to enhance railway facilities, strengthen safety measures, improve environmental sustainability, and preserve the country’s railway heritage for future generations.

Historic Railway Stations to Be Restored

As part of the Railway Heritage Preservation Initiative, restoration and conservation work will begin at the historic railway stations of:

• Lahore
• Rawalpindi
• Taxila

The project aims to preserve the architectural and historical significance of these stations while improving their appearance and visitor experience.

Progress on Suburban Railway Projects

Officials informed the meeting that work is progressing on eight suburban railway routes across Punjab.

Feasibility studies for three routes have already been completed, while studies for the remaining projects are expected to be finalized soon, allowing implementation to move forward.

Rs9.7 Billion Approved for Railway Crossing Safety

The Punjab government has approved Rs9.7 billion for the upgrading of railway level crossings across the province.

Under the project, unsafe crossings will be converted into manned level crossings in phases to improve road safety and reduce the risk of accidents.

Green Railway Corridor and Cleanliness Drive

The meeting also reviewed progress on the Green Railway Corridor Initiative, under which trees will be planted along more than 40 kilometers of railway tracks to improve the environment and enhance the surrounding landscape.

In addition, officials discussed ongoing work under the Suthra Punjab Programme, which focuses on improving cleanliness at railway stations to provide passengers with a cleaner and more comfortable travel experience.

Lahore Railway Station Upgrade Near Completion

Officials said the project to upgrade the circulating area at Lahore Railway Station has entered its final stage and is expected to be completed next month.

The upgrade is designed to improve traffic flow, accessibility, and passenger facilities at one of Pakistan’s busiest railway stations.

The joint initiatives reflect ongoing efforts by the federal and Punjab governments to modernize railway infrastructure, improve passenger services, strengthen safety standards, and preserve the country’s historic railway heritage.