ISLAMABAD: Pakistan Railways has decided to outsource the operations of 11 passenger trains through an open auction to enhance efficiency, modernize services, and increase revenue. This new approach replaces the earlier bidding system, which attracted limited applicants and failed to generate competitive offers.
According to railway officials, the open auction will be held on November 20, 2025. The trains to be offered include Hazara Express, Bahauddin Zakariya Express, Millat Express, Badar Express, Ghouri Express, Rawal Express, Thal Express, Mohenjo Daro Passenger, Fareed Express, Mianwali Express, and Faiz Ahmad Faiz Passenger Train.
Previous Bidding System Faced Challenges
Officials stated that the earlier outsourcing method faced multiple obstacles. Financial bids for some trains were low, and participation remained limited. Previously, bids totaling Rs 7.9 billion were received for nine trains. However, Federal Minister for Railways Hanif Abbasi canceled those bids and directed that future outsourcing be conducted transparently through open auctions.
Expansion of Outsourcing to Other Sectors
In addition to passenger trains, Pakistan Railways plans to outsource the commercial management of luggage and brake vans. The ministry also intends to outsource associated schools and hospitals under a broader modernization strategy.
Railway authorities believe that these reforms will help improve operational performance, provide better passenger services, and reduce the financial burden on the department. The open auction model aims to ensure transparency, attract private investors, and generate higher revenue for the national railway system.
