PESHAWAR, Dec 10: Pakistan Railways is considering opening hospitals for the general public on the pattern of the Combined Military Hospitals, says Tariq Mansoor, the caretaker minister for railways.

Talking to reporters here on Monday, the minister said the Pakistan Railways would be converted into a self-sufficient and profitable institution soon, adding that the plan for opening of its hospital for private patients is part of that initiative.

Mr Tariq visited the Pakistan Railways Hospital and held a meeting with its management.

The minister said that the organisation should create its own funds by controlling losses and this would be possible through adopting a new policy initiative. He said the caretaker set-up was committed to carrying out this job during its short tenure.

Divisional Medial Officer Nadir Ayub Wazir briefed the minister about various facilities offered by the hospital.