LAHORE: The Islamabad-Tehran-Istanbul (ITI) freight train, suspended since July last year, couldn’t resume operation due to various issues and further delays caused by the devastating floods despite the restoration of a rail link between Punjab, Sindh and Balochistan last month.

On the other hand, the main freight forwarder in Turkiye, associated with ITI train operations, has also refused to work with Pakistani freight forwarders due to delayed payments. The freight forwarder in Turkiye has, however, expressed a willingness to resume operations directly with Pakistan Railways (PR), Dawn has learnt.

Sources said that the officers concerned showed little interest in resolving operational and administrative issues, resulting in the delay.

“Though Balochistan’s rail link with other provinces has been restored, the operation of the ITI train is yet to be resumed. It seems that the officers concerned are least interested in resuming operation of this train that not only gave a handsome revenue to the Pakistan Railways but also contributed in promoting bilateral trade relations between Turkiye and Pakistan,” a source explained while talking to Dawn on Sunday.

Floods, freight disputes, operational issues hinder service

“The operation of the ITI train must be resumed, as it is beneficial for both the countries,” he added.

According to another source, the operation of international trains like the ITI train requires quality services, including timely departures, arrivals, efficient loading/unloading, customs clearance, and security measures.

However, the PR failed to provide these services, resulting in a significant slowdown of the train’s operation in July. Additionally, the high tariff and freight charges were deemed unaffordable for the business community, he added.

“All these reasons resulted in a significant slowdown of the ITI train operation in July. Subsequently, in August, the operation came to a complete halt due to the closure of the Balochistan rail link caused by massive floods in Balochistan and Sindh, which submerged the railway track.

Additionally, the floods and heavy rains led to the collapse of the Hirok bridge, a 140-year-old structure that served as the sole passage connecting Quetta with Dozen station and beyond,” he said.

Published in Dawn, May 15th, 2023