Pakistan Railways has unveiled a series of passenger-friendly reforms aimed at making train travel safer, more inclusive, and accessible for all. Announced on September 15, 2025, in a meeting chaired by Federal Minister Muhammad Hanif Abbasi, these reforms are being recognized as a major step toward modernizing the national railway network under the Ministry of Railways.
Focus on Women Safety
One of the key highlights of the new policy is the introduction of gender-sensitive protocols to ensure safer travel and dignified journeys for women passengers. Pakistan Railways will:
- Install awareness posters at stations and inside train coaches
- Broadcast regular safety announcements
- Provide gender-sensitivity and specialist training to railway staff
- Launch a dedicated awareness campaign highlighting women’s safety measures
These steps are intended to give women greater confidence in choosing railways as a safe mode of transportation across the country.
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Facilities for Persons with Disabilities
Pakistan Railways has also prioritized passenger-friendly reforms through accessibility enhancements and improved facilities for persons with disabilities. Upcoming refurbished trains will feature facility upgrades such as dedicated seating for special-needs passengers. In addition, wheelchairs will be made available at major railway stations to ensure smooth and dignified travel.
A Step Toward Inclusive Travel
Speaking about the passenger-friendly reforms, Federal Minister Muhammad Hanif Abbasi stated that Pakistan Railways considers all its passengers a “valuable asset.” These initiatives, which also include safety upgrades and facility upgrades, are designed to create an environment where every passenger, regardless of gender or ability, can travel with ease and dignity.
Part of Wider Modernization
The Ministry of Railways has already outlined plans for broader modernization, including:
- Station solarization projects to cut energy costs
- Outsourcing freight and passenger services for improved efficiency
- Digitization of operations to enhance service delivery
- Crackdowns on ticketless travel to increase revenue
Additionally, the highly anticipated Islamabad–Rawalpindi fast rail service, scheduled to launch on March 23, 2026, will offer 20-minute travel between the twin cities using existing railway tracks.
Conclusion
By introducing these passenger-friendly reforms, Pakistan Railways is taking a significant step toward transforming its image and service quality. With a renewed focus on women’s safety, accessibility enhancements, and facility upgrades, the organization under the leadership of Federal Minister Muhammad Hanif Abbasi aims to build a more inclusive, efficient, and modern railway system for the people of Pakistan.
