LAHORE, March 9: Federal Minister for Railways Sheikh Rashid Ahmad has said the Pakistan Railways will take more steps to facilitate passengers as the initiative of fare reduction has led to increase in revenue by Rs2 billion.

Speaking at a press conference at the railway headquarters here on Friday, he claimed: “We are considering to further reduce fares by two to three per cent from next month.”

He said reduction in fares by five per cent had led to rise in seat occupancy from 60 per cent to 80 per cent which would be taken to the optimum level. It would help both railways and the public.

He said four new freight trains were being brought on the tracks.

The salaries of the railways employees would be reviewed by a high-level committee, he said, adding that those who could not be provided with financial benefits through two earlier packages would be considered.

About the Samjhota Express tragedy, he said the Indian railway authorities had not provide any record or list to Pakistan. He, however, appreciated the cooperation extended by the Indian prime minister in response to Shaukat Aziz’s talk.

Saying that there is no substantial progress in the probe so far, Sheikh Rashid pledged to ensure that the matter was not put on the back burner.