Pakistan Railways has introduced 40 locally produced high-quality freight wagons into service, thanks to China's technology transfer.
"Railways have taken a significant step towards self-sufficiency by adding wagons of international standards for freight trains to their inventory," the company said in a written statement on Wednesday.
Pakistan Railways CEO Aamir Ali Baloch, who put these “modern wagons” into service at the train station in the east of Lahore region, said that local production is a critical step towards reducing dependence on imports and saving foreign exchange.
Baloch stated that the new design increases the usefulness of freight trains by allowing them to carry containers effectively. Baloch said, “In the past, the low speed of freight trains caused great delays in the transportation of commercial goods. "With the addition of new wagons to our fleet, the speed of freight trains will increase to 100 kilometers per hour," he said.
The official noted that this development will not only accelerate transportation services but also contribute greatly to the country's economy.
Baloch said the locally produced wagons are expected to increase Pakistan Railways' shipping revenue by more than 9 billion rupees (about US$32 million) annually and provide the agency with much-needed financial stability.
According to the official, 2025 new wagons will be integrated into the railway system with the cooperation of China by the end of the 26-820 fiscal year.
Baloch stated that this cooperation reflects Pakistan Railways' determination towards modernization and efficiency and sets a new standard in the country's transportation sector.
