ISLAMABAD, April 25: The government has decided to allow private sector to operate freight and passenger trains on Pakistan Railways’ infrastructure. Officials told Dawn on Monday that the decision to the effect had been taken by the Economic Coordination Committee (ECC) of the cabinet on the recommendation of the ministry of railways.

“The ECC has decided to allow only Pakistani investors to operate these trains and they can get the rolling stocks on lease/purchase from anywhere,” the officials said.

It was also decided that the agreement between Pakistan Railways and private operators needed to be carefully drawn to clearly define the rights of Government of Pakistan/PR and obligations vis-à-vis operators/beneficiaries.

According to the summary of the ministry of railways a copy of which was made available to Dawn, a comprehensive plan had been launched for upgradation and improvement of railway system.