Federal Minister for Railways Hanif Abbasi has said that the progress of Punjab, particularly in Rawalpindi, should serve as a benchmark for other provinces, crediting former prime minister Nawaz Sharif and Maryam Nawaz for the province’s development.
Speaking at a reception hosted by the Anjuman-e-Tajran in Rawalpindi, Abbasi said that Punjab’s advancement in infrastructure, transport, education, and health was the result of consistent hard work and visionary leadership.
“Let’s compare Punjab with other provinces — why not? Look at how far Rawalpindi has come. There was a time when the city had no proper transport or health facilities. Remove the contributions of Nawaz Sharif and Maryam Nawaz, and what remains of Rawalpindi is just a ‘pind’ (village),” Abbasi remarked.
He announced that electric buses and modern bus stops will soon be introduced in the city, adding that these initiatives will make travel safer and more comfortable for women. “When mothers and sisters travel with ease, everyone feels proud,” he said.
Referring to national unity, Abbasi stressed that every community — Pakhtun, Kashmiri, Sindhi, or Punjabi — is the pride of Pakistan, but warned that anyone speaking against the country would face rejection. “Whoever denies Pakistan, we will not accept them,” he said firmly.
The minister praised the sacrifices of martyrs, saying their devotion was the foundation of Pakistan’s strength and security. “The sacrifices of our martyrs are worth thousands of governments. It is because of them that Pakistan stands tall in the world today,” he added.
Abbasi also recalled the bravery of the Pakistan Army during its conflicts with India, saying the armed forces captured 22 enemy posts and shot down seven Indian aircraft. “Our soldiers ensured the nation’s safety and dignity. India must know that Pakistan is always ready to defend itself,” he said.
On the economic front, Abbasi said foreign investors, including a Saudi delegation, were arriving in Pakistan for multi-billion-dollar investments, a sign that global confidence in the country was growing. “Pakistan is alive and thriving — and the railway continues to connect the entire nation,” he said.
The event was also addressed by MNA Daniyal Tanveer Chaudhry, Anjuman-e-Tajran leader Shahid Ghafoor Pracha, and other local representatives.
