ISLAMABAD: Pakistan Railways has begun work on the first phase of its largest-ever digitisation initiative, aimed at modernising operations and improving passenger services, with completion targeted for June 2026, officials said.
The progress of the Railway Advanced Infrastructure Network (RAIN) Phase I was reviewed during a briefing by the Directorate of IT in a meeting chaired by Railways Minister Hanif Abbasi.
Officials informed the minister that the project is being implemented using Pakistan Railways’ own financial resources, reflecting a focus on internal sustainability and operational efficiency.
Phase I includes the introduction of GPS-based tracking for trains and locomotives, development of smart and secure railway stations in major cities, and provision of high-speed internet facilities at selected locations.
The project also involves establishing command and control centres at the Pakistan Railways headquarters in Lahore and across divisional offices, along with fibre-optic connectivity along approximately 1,700 kilometres of the ML-1 railway corridor.
According to officials, the digitisation drive is expected to support real-time monitoring, data-driven decision-making, and faster response during emergencies, while helping reduce delays and enhance safety standards.
The railways minister said the initiative marked a significant step towards transforming Pakistan Railways into a more efficient, technology-driven and passenger-focused organisation.
