The Pakistan Railways is contemplating to start 14 new freight trains in the current year in addition to a number of fast passenger trains. Former Faisalabad Chamber of Commerce and Industry (FCCI) president and trustee of Faisalabad Dry Port Trust Mian Muhammad Hanif said this while quoting his meeting with railways minister Sheikh Rashid.
He said the minister was of the view the railways should concentrate on freight trains to earn profit. He urged upon the business community to invest in the railways sector to streamline the railway system in addition to earning profit. The minister also expressed the hope that business community will explore the possibility of starting joint ventures with the railways on BOT or partnership basis, which include construction of shopping plazas, display centres and other commercial projects on prime railway land across the country.
He said the minister has also offered to start a "joint venture" with the FCCI to launch a cargo train for Faisalabad Dry Port in addition to upgrading Faisalabad railway station.