Pakistan Railways’ recent attempt to outsource eleven passenger trains has met with limited success, as only three trains attracted bids from private companies, while the remaining eight saw no participation.
According to sources within Pakistan Railways, the initiative aims to provide passengers with modern travel facilities through private sector involvement. Last month, bids were invited for eleven trains. Of these, the Mianwali Express received a bid of 542.1 million rupees, the Badr Express 313.05 million rupees, and the Ghori Express 313.05 million rupees. All three bids were submitted by the private company NCS.
The other eight trains — Thal Express, Faiz Ahmed Faiz Express, Manjodero Express, Ravi Express, Farid Express, Millat Express, Bahauddin Zakaria Express, and Hazara Express — failed to attract any offers. Pakistan Railways officials attributed the lack of bids to high reserve prices set for these trains.
Railways sources added that approvals for the three successful bids are expected this month. Officials emphasized that outsourcing will not transfer ownership to private companies; instead, operations will be closely monitored under strict standard operating procedures.
This move follows a previously canceled outsourcing attempt, which was annulled by Federal Minister for Railways Hanif Abbasi. Speaking to media sources, Abbasi said, “All decisions in Pakistan Railways are being made on merit.
Outsourcing is aimed solely at enhancing passenger services and increasing revenue, while maintaining transparency and strict checks and balances.”
