Pakistan Railways Outsourcing 11 Trains
Pakistan Railways has officially decided to outsource 11 major trains through an open auction system. The auction will be held on 3 December at the Pakistan Railways Headquarters in Lahore. A pre-bid conference is scheduled for 17 November, and all companies must submit their pre-qualification documents by 25 November.
This move aims to improve services, reduce government expenses, and bring private operators into the railway sector for better management.
Main Highlights
- Total outsourced trains: 11
- Auction type: Open public auction
- Pre-bid conference: 17 November
- Document submission: 25 November
- Auction date and time: 3 December, 11:00 AM
- Location: Pakistan Railways HQ, Lahore
Why This Decision Matters
Pakistan Railways has been working on improving service quality and reducing losses. Outsourcing helps keep operations smooth while allowing private companies to handle ticketing, cleanliness, and passenger service.
This decision is expected to bring visible improvements in punctuality and comfort.
Trains Selected for Outsourcing
Pakistan Railways has chosen the following 11 trains:
- Hazara Express
- Bahauddin Zakariya Express
- Millat Express
- Badar Express
- Ghouri Express
- Rawal Express
- Thal Express
- Moen Jo Daro Passenger
- Fareed Express
- Mianwali Express
- Faiz Ahmad Faiz Passenger Train
These trains cover busy and high-demand routes across Punjab, Sindh, and KP.
Outsourcing Schedule
| Stage | Date | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Pre-Bid Conference | 17 November | Information session for companies |
| Document Submission | 25 November | Pre-qualification papers required |
| Open Auction | 3 December | 11 AM at PR HQ Lahore |
How the Outsourcing Model Works
Under the new model, private companies will manage many service-related tasks. Pakistan Railways will continue monitoring the overall operation to ensure safety and standards.
Private operators will handle:
- Reservation and ticketing
- Coach cleaning and maintenance
- Onboard facilities and catering
- Customer service
- Staff management
The government will focus on supervision, track monitoring, and safety rules.
Expected Benefits for Passengers
Passengers are expected to enjoy a better travel experience due to improved management. Clean coaches, faster booking, and more punctual timings are the top expected improvements.
Travelers may also notice:
- Better seat arrangements
- More staff for assistance
- Safer and more comfortable journeys
Opportunity for Private Companies
This outsourcing project is a major opportunity for companies working in transport, tourism, and hospitality. Any organization with experience in travel services or digital booking systems can benefit financially from operating these trains.
Passenger demand on most of these routes is high throughout the year, making the project profitable for operators.
Future Plans of Pakistan Railways
Officials have shared that more trains may be outsourced in the coming months. The department is also preparing for station upgrades, improved digital systems, and better cargo handling facilities.
These changes show that Pakistan Railways is moving toward modernization and long-term development.
Conclusion
The outsourcing of 11 trains through an open auction is a major step toward improving Pakistan’s railway network. With clear timelines and strong demand on selected routes, this move is expected to enhance passenger comfort, increase revenue, and bring modern standards to the country’s railway services.
