An important meeting was held at the Chief Minister Secretariat, Quetta, under the chairmanship of Chief Minister Balochistan Mir Sarfaraz Bugti and Federal Minister for Railways Muhammad Hanif Abbasi, focusing on the People’s Train Service and other joint development initiatives between the Government of Balochistan and Pakistan Railways.
During the meeting, both sides reached a principled agreement on collaborative development projects aimed at improving public transport and strengthening railway infrastructure in Balochistan.
Federal Minister for Railways Muhammad Hanif Abbasi described the People’s Train Service as a harmonious blend of cooperation between Pakistan Railways and the Government of Balochistan. He stated that the project would prove to be a landmark initiative in providing affordable, safe, and reliable travel facilities to the people of Balochistan.
He further noted that for the first time in the 78-year history of Pakistan Railways, a decision on provincial-level devolution has been taken, with Balochistan assuming practical leadership. The Federal Minister emphasized that Pakistan Railways’ collaboration with the provinces reflects a strong example of trust, coordination, and cooperative federalism between the federation and the provinces.
Highlighting provincial initiatives, Muhammad Hanif Abbasi stated that while all three provinces have shown interest in local railway services, Balochistan has taken the lead, which is a clear manifestation of Chief Minister Mir Sarfaraz Bugti’s effective leadership and clear vision.
Addressing the meeting, Chief Minister Mir Sarfaraz Bugti said that the revival of the railway system and provision of affordable transport facilities to the public are among the top priorities of the Government of Balochistan. He announced that PKR 1.40 billion for the People’s Train Service project will be released within the current week.
The Chief Minister further informed that following the Saryab–Kuchlak People’s Train Service, the project will be extended to Mastung and Pishin. He added that the Government of Balochistan will provide resources for the construction of railway stations and upgradation of railway infrastructure to ensure improved services for passengers.
At the conclusion of the meeting, both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to accelerating progress on public welfare-oriented projects through enhanced coordination between Pakistan Railways and the Government of Balochistan.
Later, the Chief Minister of Balochistan and the Federal Minister for Railways also visited the Railway Football Ground, where they reviewed matters related to joint development projects and expressed consensus on future initiatives.
