Pakistan Railways finds itself on the precipice of collapse, a dire situation exacerbated by the lack of essential technical infrastructure and the consistent neglect of state investment. The recent collision between a train bound from Karachi to Rawalpindi and derailed bogies at Qila Sattar Shah in Sheikhupura, resulting in over 17 passengers injured, serves as a stark reminder of the railways’ deteriorating condition.
In the aftermath of the incident, railway authorities reacted predictably by suspending four junior employees. However, this isolated action fails to address the systemic issues plaguing Pakistan Railways. The incident’s underlying cause lies in the prior derailment of a freight train at the same location, caused by weak tracks. Astonishingly, the derailed bogies were left abandoned instead of being sent for repair at the Lahore workshop. It was only after the Mianwali Express accident that emergency measures were taken to transport the freight carriages to Lahore.
The alarming truth is that most of Pakistan Railways’ tracks are in a state of severe disrepair, making them unsuitable for high-speed trains. This perilous situation has repeatedly led to tragic accidents. Dr. Qaiser Bengali, a prominent economist in the country, points to a fundamental issue: the persistent failure of the Pakistani government to invest adequately in this critical state institution. While the government has dedicated substantial resources to improving the infrastructure of national and provincial highways, Pakistan Railways has been left to languish.
It’s essential to recognize a global reality: passenger trains are not profit centers for railway systems around the world. Instead, countries rely on the cargo network for revenue. Regrettably, Pakistan Railways lacks both high-speed cargo trains and robust railway tracks, a direct consequence of insufficient investment. As a result, Pakistan Railways consistently operates at a financial deficit.
The recent announcement of the Shalimar Express’s closure, attributed to a ‘deficit,’ has triggered vehement protests among railway travelers nationwide. This development underscores the urgent need for a comprehensive overhaul of Pakistan Railways, with a focus on modernizing its infrastructure and investing in the future. Failing to address these critical issues not only endangers the safety of passengers but also undermines the country’s economic potential. Pakistan must prioritize its railway system and steer it back on track before it’s too late.
