ISLAMABAD, Nov 25 (Wealth Pakistan) – Pakistan Railways has earned more than Rs300 billion over the past four years, showing a steady rise in revenue and signs of improving financial stability.
Revenue performance over four years
According to documents available with Wealth Pakistan, the department earned Rs306.203 billion from FY2021-22 to FY2024-25. Year-wise revenue stood at Rs60.092 billion in 2021–22, Rs63.718 billion in 2022–23, Rs88.792 billion in 2023–24, and Rs93.601 billion in 2024–25.
Operating expenses during the same period amounted to Rs67.699 billion in 2021–22, Rs72.178 billion in 2022–23, Rs88.380 billion in 2023–24, and Rs89.269 billion in 2024–25.
Key revenue streams
Pakistan Railways generates income from several major sources. Passenger services remain the primary contributor. Freight operations form another major component, transporting petroleum, coal, cement, agricultural products and other items across the country.
The department also earns revenue through rented or leased railway properties, public-private partnerships, and management of trains, stations and terminals.
Passenger facilities and service upgrades
In recent years, the department has introduced several improvements. These include executive washrooms, free Wi-Fi, escalators at major stations, and modern dining cars offering hygienic food. Cleanliness standards have also improved through a partnership with the Punjab Waste Management Company.
According to the documents, these measures have raised passenger satisfaction levels. Train punctuality stood at 81 percent in 2021–22, 79 percent in 2022–23, and improved again to 82 percent in 2023–24.
Outsourcing and partnerships
To improve efficiency, the ministry is engaging private parties through leasing and outsourcing arrangements. So far, six passenger trains have been outsourced, while 11 more are in process. Commercial management of 20 brake vans and 14 simple vans has also been outsourced.
The Auditor General of Pakistan is conducting a third-party audit to ensure transparency in these initiatives.
Focus on reforms and modernization
A senior official of the Ministry of Railways, requesting anonymity, told Wealth Pakistan that long-term reforms remain a priority. He said that upgrading tracks and modernizing the signaling system are essential next steps.
He added that digital transformation is also needed. Online booking systems, mobile applications and automated ticketing services would help improve performance across the network.
Freight expansion and future direction
Efforts are also underway to expand the freight corridor to attract large commercial clients. Increasing cargo-handling capacity is another major goal.
“These initiatives will strengthen Pakistan Railways’ revenue base and reduce its reliance on government subsidies,” the official said.