RAWALPINDI: Pakistan Railways has said it will launch a key initiative under the Railway Advanced Infrastructure Network (RAIN) Phase-I, marking a historic step towards digitisation.

A modern locomotive tracking system, comprising 700 devices, is being introduced to ensure complete monitoring of train movements. Additionally, a rolling stock tracking system with 6,000 devices and the deployment of 14,000 RFID tags will significantly enhance asset visibility and operational efficiency.

This information was shared at a meeting with Minister for Railways Hanif Abbasi in the chair to review RAIN Phase-I. The meeting was attended by the chief technical officer and chief operating officer of Frontier Works Organisation (FWO). A briefing was given on the ongoing digital transformation of the railways.

Progress on the establishment of modern control rooms at the railway headquarters and across all divisions was also reviewed. The meeting was briefed on the provision of free public Wi-Fi for passengers, deployment of smart surveillance systems, initially at Karachi, Lahore, and Sukkur stations, and the implementation of a real-time fuel monitoring system aimed at ensuring transparency and cost efficiency.

The minister was also briefed on digital reforms being introduced in collaboration with the Punjab Information Technology Board (PITB). These include an advanced attendance management system, which is expected to become fully operational within the coming week, ensuring improved transparency and discipline in workforce management.

Furthermore, an e-inspection regime is being introduced with a real-time inspection system nearing completion.

This initiative is set to bring a transformative change in inspection practices and asset management by enabling timely monitoring and improved governance.

The meeting informed that all digital projects, being executed in collaboration with FWO, are expected to be completed within the current fiscal year, leading to a comprehensive system upgrade of Pakistan Railways.

Speaking on the occasion, the minister reaffirmed the government’s commitment to modernising the railways in line with the prime minister’s vision. He said these digital initiatives will not only enhance operational efficiency and transparency but will also significantly improve passenger services.

He stated that Pakistan Railways was entering a new era of modernization, one that is digital, accountable and aligned with international standards, ensuring a safer, more reliable and passenger-centric railway system for the country.

Published in Dawn, April 7th, 2026