ISLAMABAD, Jun 5: The Federal Minister for Railways and Aviation, Khawaja Saad Rafique, has revealed that the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N)-led government had devised a comprehensive plan to enhance the country’s major airports and railway stations. The aim is to introduce modern facilities for passengers, bringing them at par with international standards. In a recent interview with a private news channel, the minister highlighted the government’s commitment to providing maximum basic facilities to passengers while generating additional revenue for the department, ultimately driving it towards self-sufficiency. Furthermore, Rafique emphasized the government’s dedication to upgrading security checks at railway stations, ensuring the safety of travelers.
Focus on Airport Authority and Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) Services:
Rafique expressed the government’s determination to improve the performance of the airport authority and Pakistan International Airlines (PIA). The government intends to maximize passenger satisfaction by providing them with a host of facilities. The minister announced that a contract had been signed with the New York City government to operate the prestigious Roosevelt Hotel, owned by PIA and located in New York, for a duration of three years. This move demonstrates the government’s commitment to exploring new avenues for revenue generation and enhancing the efficiency of PIA’s services.
Outsourcing Major Airports:
In line with the government’s plans, three major international airports in Lahore, Karachi, and Islamabad are being outsourced. However, the minister clarified that outsourcing does not equate to privatization. The International Finance Corporation (IFC) of the World Bank, a reputable entity, has been entrusted with the responsibility of overseeing the outsourcing process. This decision was made considering the lack of domestic companies with sufficient experience in airport management. The government has already initiated the process of upgrading these airports to provide an enhanced travel experience to passengers. Furthermore, the construction of Gwadar International Airport is underway, and it is expected to become operational soon.
Quetta Airport Facilitates Direct Flights to Makkah:
Khawaja Saad Rafique highlighted an important milestone achieved under the government’s initiatives. For the first time in history, Quetta airport has commenced direct flights to Makkah for Hajj, greatly simplifying the journey for passengers. This development has provided hassle-free and convenient travel options for individuals undertaking the sacred pilgrimage.
Upgrading Unmanned and Vulnerable Railway Level Crossings:
Responding to a question regarding railway safety, the minister acknowledged the importance of upgrading unmanned and vulnerable railway level crossings across the country. The government is actively collaborating with respective provincial governments to address this concern. Practical steps are being taken to ensure the safety and well-being of railway passengers.
Read More: Gwadar Designated as Tax-Free Zone by Balochistan Government
The PML-N-led government, under the leadership of Federal Minister Khawaja Saad Rafique, is committed to upgrading major airports and railway stations in Pakistan. By incorporating modern facilities and adhering to international standards, the government aims to provide a superior travel experience for passengers. Through outsourcing major airports and implementing measures to improve the performance of airport authorities and PIA, the government is focused on generating revenue and enhancing services. Additionally, the government’s initiatives, such as direct flights from Quetta to Makkah for Hajj, showcase its dedication to facilitating hassle-free travel for passengers. With ongoing efforts to upgrade railway safety, the government aims to ensure the well-being of railway travelers across the country.
