Restructuring of Railways

There has been a series of disasters and debacles that has shaken the common man's confidence in Railways. It however remains the sole mode of transportation for men and cargo within the country, for without it the nation's industry will come to a standstill.
Unfortunately, the federal government has failed to give it the priority that it deserves. It's assets have been systemetically gobbled up at throwaway price by power lobbies that sustain this regime, either under the garb of education or vital national interests and the plot mafia.
The Railway Board is a white elephant, which needs to shed its colonial legacy and gear up to perform its task of a service oriented industry and the most vital logistic support in times of peace and turmoil.
The recent criticism by the concerned minister was in order, and perhaps the only light at the end of a dark and clueless tunnel.
The board must revamp itself and be constituted of professional engineers, accountants and qualified administrators. Salaries of operational staff needs to be boosted, so that they can perform their jobs reasonably.
The controversial procurement of defective locomotives and engines will always remain a thorn, till accountability is done. Had the authorities sold railway assets at market prrices, enough cash could have been generated to revamp this most important of transportation networks. However this is a dream that shall never see the light of day, as long as those whose business is real estate and self interest hold the fort.
National assets cannot and should not be allowed to be plundered. It is an irony that the government of Pakistan has provided funds and subsidies and continues to do so to PIA,to the tune of billions of dollars, while the Railways till recently a self sufficient organisation is neglected. PIA was provided government-secured loans and subsidies to procure expensive brand new B777s, which it has failed to maintain or operate to optimum usage.
It then leased the used A310s, for which funds were again made available, inspite of the fact that the revenue generation is far less than the expenses incurred by this over ambitious expansion plan.
Perhaps the class that flies PIA, makes the decision that sets these priorities. There are so many funds available to PIA, that inspite this massive expansion plan and sky high fuel prices, its head office is being given an expensive new look, with elevators, wood-panelling etc.
The Railway headoffice, frequented by the masses, on the other hand, is in a deplorable condition. It is time the government sets its priorities right. Railway is a vital, cost efficient and reliable logistical support. It is the government's obligation to provide it funds and a professional management, which it needs. The poor masses of Pakistan have too many woes already to deal with, and this neglect of the Railways will only add to their miseries.