PM Shehbaz launches Pakistan-Business Express train

Lahore (Web Desk): Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif inaugurated the Pak-Business Express train on Tuesday in Lahore, marking a significant development in Pakistan's rail transport sector.

The newly launched service aims to offer improved and more comfortable travel options for passengers.

The launch event also included the unveiling of several upgraded amenities at the Lahore Railway Station, such as the installation of escalators, renovated waiting halls, an updated family lounge, and enhanced facilities in the CIP lounge. Free internet access via WiFi has also been made available for travelers at the station.

Addressing the ceremony, PM Shehbaz expressed appreciation for the efforts of Railways Minister Hanif Abbasi and the leadership of Pakistan Railways in enhancing passenger facilities.

He described this initiative as just the beginning of a broader effort to modernize railway services nationwide.

The prime minister emphasized the importance of transforming Pakistan Railways into a reliable and comfortable mode of transportation for the average citizen. He also urged authorities to improve the freight system and to work towards elevating the overall standards of the railways in line with leading systems around the world.

The prime minister also took the opportunity to reflect on the recent four-day conflict with India. 
He characterized it as a challenging episode in which Pakistan’s armed forces emerged successfully in a short span of time.

Highlighting the strategic effectiveness of Pakistan’s military, he credited the Pakistan Air Force for its technological prowess, while noting the Army’s decisive deployment of the Al-Fatah missile.

The Navy, according to him, remained on high alert throughout the conflict.

PM Shehbaz remarked that the outcome of the confrontation defied assumptions that Pakistan would not be capable of engaging in a conventional war.

Addressing the economic matters, stated that Pakistan has achieved a degree of macroeconomic stability. He pointed to a noticeable drop in both inflation and interest rates as a sign of coordinated efforts by various sectors working as a unified team.

On the diplomatic front, he highlighted Pakistan’s continued engagement with China on the second phase of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).

PM Shehbaz also acknowledged that relations with the United States are seeing steady improvement.

He also praised US President Donald Trump for his role in facilitating a ceasefire between Pakistan and India, calling it a noteworthy diplomatic accomplishment.

Speaking earlier at the event, Railways Minister Hanif Abbasi reaffirmed the government’s commitment to upgrading the railway system.

He announced that ATM and point-of-sale machines will be introduced at 348 stations across the country to provide a seamless, cashless ticketing experience for travelers.

The minister also mentioned that Pakistan Railways’ inquiry services are scheduled to be fully operational by the coming week. Furthermore, he revealed plans to install escalators at the Karachi Railway Station to improve accessibility.