THE current condition of Faisalabad Railway Station, one of the largest and busiest stations in Pakistan, is appalling and disappointing. Despite generating substantial revenue, the station is suffer-ing from utter neglect, causing serious problems to the passengers.

While the overall cleanliness is far from satisfactory, the pathetic state of the washrooms is the stuff of nightmares marked by overflowing waste and garbage, broken water taps, and non-existent door locks. The putrid stench emanating from these ‘facilities’ is unbearable. This unacceptable situation poses serious health risks to travellers, especially women, children and the elderly.

As a major railway hub, Faisalabad Railway Station deserves a lot better. The relevant authorities must take immediate action to address these issues. Basic amenities, like functional washrooms, clean drinking water, and proper waste management, are not luxuries but fund-amental rights of the passengers.

The officials at Pakistan Railways should get the station renovated, and then keep a close eye on the level of maintenance. Functional washrooms with regular cleaning and proper waste disposal should be ensured along with the provision of clean drinking water for the passengers.

Syed Ali Abass Shah
Faisalabad

Published in Dawn, November 1st, 2024