RAWALPINDI — The Safe and Smart Railway Station project has officially been inaugurated in Rawalpindi, marking Pakistan’s first major leap toward a digitally secure and passenger-friendly railway network. At this occasion, federal minister for railways Muhammad Hanif Abbasi has said that Pakistan Railways is putting utmost efforts to improve the safety of passengers, the quality of services, and operational efficiency.

Talking to the media at the inauguration ceremony of Pakistan’s first Safe and smart railway station, Abbasi said the modernization drive is being carried out under the vision of the Prime Minister to transform Pakistan Railways into a modern, secure, and passenger-friendly transport network. “All major railway stations across the country will soon be equipped with upgraded facilities to ensure safety, comfort, and better travel experiences for passengers,” he stated.

Improved Security and Surveillance

A newly fitted, state-of-the-art surveillance and monitoring system comprising 143 high-definition cameras has been installed within the premises of Rawalpindi Railway Station. The network extends to platforms, waiting lounges, ticketing areas, reservation counters, and other access points around the premises for real-time monitoring of passenger activities and staff performance.

Abbasi said the Safe and Smart Railway Station system would enhance not only security but also administrative supervision. “It will help eliminate security blind spots, ensure efficient monitoring of the staff, and provide a safer environment to the passengers,” he added.

Modern Facilities for Passengers

He also inaugurated newly constructed lounges and waiting halls to provide respite for the traveling public in a more comfortable and accessible manner. The upgraded station also boasts of separate waiting areas for families, women, tea and refreshment counters, free Wi-Fi, and ATM facilities with an aim to make the area more commuter-friendly.

“These improvements at the railway station are part of a nationwide plan to bring them up to international standards,” said Abbasi, referring to similar upgrades being carried out in the country’s major stations.

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Fleet and Infrastructure Upgrades

In addition to station modernization, Abbasi added that the Pakistani Railways have also started replacing old rakes of trains with refurbished ones for improvement in ride quality and reliability. As many as three rakes have been refurbished on the Lahore–Rawalpindi route, while the fourth one would be ready by mid-November.

He further verified that the renovation at Faisalabad Station is complete, while the renovated Karachi Cantt terminal is getting ready for its grand reopening. The Safe and Smart Railway Station initiative launched by Pakistan Railways ushers in a new era of digital surveillance, passenger comfort, and efficient management, thereby setting the tone for the national railway network to be more connected and secure.