PESHAWAR, May 25: Federal Minister for Railways Sheikh Rashid Ahmad has announced 50 per cent discount in freight of cargo trains to facilitate the business community.

The minister made this announcement while talking to business community of NWFP during his visit to Sarhad Chamber of Commerce and Industry here on Thursday.

He said Pakistan Railways would provide discount facility after signing of agreement with businessmen for running of cargo trains between Peshawar and Karachi. “If businessmen fail to provide business to the railways, they will have to pay the penalty and in case of delay in transportation of goods, the railways will pay the fine,” the minister explained.

He also extended the offer for handing over of new dry port at Azhakhel (Nowshera) to SCCI on built, operate and transfer (BOT) basis.

He said the SCCI should decide terms and conditions with Railways chairman Shakeel Durrani and construct the dry port on BOT basis.

The minister listened to the problems being faced by business community of NWFP, especially those dealing in transit of trade goods, and held out assurance of resolving all problems.

He, on the occasion, also announced reduction of demurrage on parked imported cars at Peshawar dry port from Rs500 per day to Rs400.

He said Pakistan Railways would provide all facilities to businessmen for improving trade and increasing its income.

He also directed PR chairman to take measures for starting air-conditioned bogies for transportation of fresh and dry fruits.

He said in case of delay of cargo train, the concerned divisional superintendent would be held responsible.

In response to a question, he said, Pakistan Railways was ready for taking locomotives from India on lease.—APP