ISLAMABAD: Pakistan Railways is all set to switch its entire stations’ power network including major railway stations, offices, workshops, and factories to solar systems in multiple phases which would help to save billions of rupees for the department.
An official from the Ministry of Railways said, “The initial phase is projected to yield savings of Rs 1.8 billion, with subsequent phases incorporating additional stations, offices, and facilities.” In the inaugural phase, the aim is to convert approximately 99 formations, comprising major railway stations, nine divisional headquarters, and essential offices, to solar power.
The conversion process will be facilitated through the engagement of the National Engineering Services Pakistan (NESPAK) to implement the solar system across the railway network. The decision to adopt solar energy is strategically motivated by the desire to alleviate the economic burden on Pakistan Railways, which has grappled with financial challenges.
In response to inquiries, the official disclosed that Pakistan Railways is also exploring the installation of fibre optics cables along the entire railway tracks throughout the country. This initiative is planned as a collaborative effort with private sector investors, aiming to generate additional revenue for the organization.
With a railway network spanning approximately 7,791 kilometres across the country, this move not only promises financial improvement for the department but also seeks to attract investor interest. The proposal to lay fibre optics cables was discussed during a meeting of the Economic Coordination Committee (ECC), where the Ministry of Railways highlighted the potential for digital connectivity across the county.
The official emphasized that despite the challenges posed by substantial assets and pension obligations, Pakistan Railways contends that its financial health is deteriorating. The identification of new revenue sources becomes imperative to reduce reliance on government subsidies and ensure the sustainability of the railway system. —APP
