Pakistan Railways Faces Challenges Due to Staff Shortage and Limited Funds
Pakistan Railways is currently facing serious financial constraints, staff shortages, and operational challenges that are affecting train operations across the country.
Officials say these issues are forcing the department to continue both passenger and freight services under limited resources, which is also impacting efficiency and maintenance standards.
Staff Shortage and Financial Pressure
A senior official from the Lahore division reported that there is a 50% shortage in sanctioned staff strength, creating difficulties in managing daily operations.
The official added that limited funding has made it difficult to carry out even basic maintenance work. Small financial approvals reportedly take a long time to process, which further delays operational improvements.
Despite these challenges, staff members continue to manage train operations under difficult conditions.
Operational Challenges Affecting Safety
Officials have expressed concern that resource shortages are affecting maintenance of locomotives, coaches, wagons, and tracks.
In some cases, parts are reportedly being taken from one coach to repair another due to lack of spare resources. This situation is increasing operational pressure and raising safety concerns for both passengers and railway staff.
Calls for System Improvement
During a recent meeting in Lahore, railway officials highlighted that all divisions of Pakistan Railways are facing similar challenges, including Lahore, Karachi, Multan, Sukkur, Quetta, Rawalpindi, Peshawar, and workshops.
Divisional Superintendent Inamullah Khan emphasized the need to improve train operations and ensure that signaling and interlocking systems remain fully functional to support safe and efficient operations.
Municipal and Power Sector Operations
Separately, the Lahore district administration has intensified action against illegal constructions, sealing and demolishing multiple buildings in various areas for violating building regulations.
In another operation, the Lahore Electric Supply Company (LESCO) detected electricity theft cases worth hundreds of thousands of rupees in residential and commercial areas, leading to power disconnections and legal action.
