BEIJING, April 26: China will hand over 150 high-capacity railway freight wagons to Pakistan by the end of June, said Minister for Railways Mian Shamim Haider here on Tuesday. Talking to newsmen at the end of his 10-day visit to China, he said fruitful discussions were held with the Chinese side to enhance bilateral cooperation in the railway sector.

The delivery of 150 wagons is part of an agreement, under which China Dongang Electric Corporation is to provide 1,300 wagons to Pakistan Railways in three years.

Replying to a question, he said he has conveyed Pakistan’s concern to the Chinese side regarding supply of nine defective locomotives.

Mr Haider said he was assured on behalf of the Chinese government that the defects in the locomotives would be rectified according to the satisfaction of the Pakistan Railways.

It was decided that the contract signed between the Dongfang Electric Corporation and Pakistan Railways will be implemented in letter and spirit. The corporation agreed to provide five-year bank guarantee to ensure proper working of the locomotives.

The Chinese side accepted the responsibility of repairing the defective parts of the locomotives, making them functional forthwith.

If needed, these would also be replaced. Mr Haider pointed out under-frame cracks had appeared in 3,000 horsepower locomotives. It was agreed that if needed the rest of the 3,000 hp, to be provided later would be converted into 2,000 hp.

He said 23 out of 69 locomotives, mainly 2,000 hp supplied to Pakistan so far are in operation without any complaint.—APP