Punjab Government to Upgrade 177 Unmanned Railway Crossings, Announces Major Rail Improvement Plans
Lahore: The Punjab government has announced plans to improve railway safety by taking responsibility for upgrading 177 unmanned railway level crossings across the province. The initiative is part of a broader effort to enhance public transport, strengthen railway infrastructure, and improve passenger services.
The announcement was discussed during a meeting between Federal Minister for Railways Hanif Abbasi and Punjab Senior Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb at Pakistan Railways Headquarters in Lahore.
Rs9.7 Billion Allocated for Railway Crossing Safety
According to officials, the Punjab government has initially allocated Rs9.7 billion to convert all 177 unmanned railway crossings into manned crossings.
The project aims to improve road safety by reducing the risk of accidents involving vehicles and pedestrians at railway intersections.
Cooperation Between Punjab Government and Pakistan Railways
The meeting reviewed progress under a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed earlier this year between the Punjab government and Pakistan Railways.
Both sides discussed several initiatives focused on:
- Improving passenger transport services.
- Modernizing railway infrastructure.
- Strengthening coordination between provincial authorities and Pakistan Railways.
- Expanding rail services across Punjab.
New Train Services Planned
Officials also reviewed plans to introduce Diesel Multiple Unit (DMU) train services on eight railway routes across Punjab.
Authorities said survey work for the project has already begun, while an agreement covering the new services is currently being finalized.
Parks to Be Developed Along Railway Corridor
As part of environmental improvement efforts, the Punjab government also plans to develop parks near railway property.
The project includes the establishment of 40 public parks along the Shahdara–Raiwind railway corridor, aiming to improve green spaces and enhance the surrounding environment.
Fast Train Between Lahore and Rawalpindi
Under the previously signed MoU, the Punjab government has also pledged financial support for the launch of a fast train service between Lahore and Rawalpindi.
According to project plans, the train is expected to cover approximately 280 kilometers in about 2 hours and 15 minutes.
The broader railway modernization plan also includes expanding fast and regional train services across approximately 1,415 kilometers, covering 20 regions and eight major local routes throughout Punjab.
Background
Pakistan Railways has long identified unmanned level crossings as a significant safety concern.
In recent years, several crossings were closed following multiple accidents. Authorities say the new initiative is intended to improve railway safety while supporting long-term efforts to modernize public transportation across the province.
