THE government has started two new express trains from Mianwali and Rawalpindi. Pakistan Railways has potential to run more trains and it can be turned into a profitable department. It is the backbone of the economy and the country.

Mianwali Express is a blessing for the people of Mianwali, Jand, Basal and other areas. The timing of any train is important for passengers. The timing of this train should be changed according to the needs of the people. People cannot move at late night in this area with ease.

This train should leave from Rawalpindi at 2pm or 3pm. Otherwise there will be less passengers at this time on the route.

While the train from Kundian is getting popular among passengers, the train from Rawalpindi is operating without many passengers owing to inconvenient time. The train reaches Mianwali and Kundian after midnight. People can’t travel from Mianwali and Kundian onwards as they are hesitant to travel at night in these backward areas.

Mianwali Express should also have stops at Chaab, Injra, Makhad Road, Masan, Uchari and Jhamat because there is no road facility in these areas.

Similarly, the timing of Rawalpindi Express, which is running between Rawalpindi and Lahore, should be changed. It should begin its journey at 7pm instead of 8pm from both sides.

Rawalpindi Express should stop at Gujjar Khan. Jehlum, Lalamusa, Gujrat and Wazirabad to facilitate people of these areas.

It will be beneficial for the people if a train between Mianwali and Lahore is also started. People of Khushab also need a train since they are fed up with travelling by buses and wagons.

Umar Bin Abdul Aziz

Rawalpindi

Published in Dawn, January 7th, 2019