Pakistan Railways has launched a major initiative to upgrade power facilities in passenger trains by procuring 16 new power plants worth more than Rs. 3 billion.
The project aims to replace outdated power units currently installed in express and passenger trains across the country, improving electricity supply, air conditioning and lighting facilities for travellers.
Federal Minister for Railways Hanif Abbasi said the procurement process is expected to be completed by December this year, with bidding, tendering and shortlisting activities already underway.
As part of the modernization plan, Pakistan Railways is also carrying out phased repairs and overhauling of old and non-functional power plants. The minister said all trains are expected to have new, refurbished or properly maintained power systems by March next year.
Pakistan Railways currently operates 95 power plants, out of which only 45 are functional in different trains, while the remaining units are either damaged or inactive due to maintenance issues.
Officials said years of inadequate maintenance have contributed to repeated passenger complaints, particularly regarding power failures, air conditioning problems and lighting disruptions during journeys.
The department has also reported incidents involving electrical faults, including fires caused by short circuits and power fluctuations, highlighting the need for improved safety measures.
In addition to replacing large power units, Pakistan Railways plans to upgrade smaller power plants installed in local passenger trains, although work on that phase has not yet begun.
The minister added that the current project is expected to introduce around seven new or overhauled power plants into train operations as part of broader efforts to improve passenger services.
