Pakistan Railways to Outsource Management of Key Passenger Trains to the Private Sector
ISLAMABAD – In a major move aimed at improving travel services and boosting revenue, Pakistan Railways has decided to outsource the commercial management of several passenger trains to the private sector, sources confirmed on Monday.
According to officials familiar with the matter, the decision will affect a wide range of trains, including Hazara Express, Bahauddin Zakaria Express, Millat Express, Subak Kharam Express, Rawal Express, Badar Express, Ghori Express, Ravi Express, Thall Express, Faiz Ahmed Faiz Express, and Moenjo Daro Passenger.
The railways have invited bids from interested private firms, with the submission deadline set for August 12. Bids will be opened on the same day, officials added.
This initiative follows an earlier decision in February, when Pakistan Railways announced the outsourcing of seven major trains, including Hazara Express, Karachi Express, Farid Express, Bahauddin Zakaria Express, Sukkur Express, Rawalpindi Express, and Moenjo-Daro Express.
Officials clarified that this step does not amount to privatization, as the trains will remain under the ownership of Pakistan Railways. Instead, private firms will be responsible for commercial management, including ticketing and onboard services, while operational control will stay with the government.
The move is part of a broader strategy to enhance passenger experience and improve financial performance through public-private partnerships.
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