Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi has vowed to ensure the complete security of Pakistan’s railway system in light of rising terror threats. Speaking at a high-level meeting chaired by Railways Minister Hanif Abbasi at Pakistan Railways Headquarters in Lahore, Naqvi said passenger safety remains the government’s top priority. He pledged full support for the Railways Police and called for urgent implementation of all security protocols.
The meeting reviewed countrywide security measures for railway lines and stations, with a special focus on Balochistan. Officials were briefed on recent threats and protective steps being taken. The interior minister assured that every possible resource will be used to protect passengers, rail assets, and key infrastructure. “No compromise will be made when it comes to national security,” he said.
Balochistan has witnessed a sharp surge in militant violence. In the first six months of 2025 alone, 501 terror incidents killed 257 people, including 133 security personnel. Attacks on railways have been particularly deadly, including the March 11 assault on the Jaffar Express that left 31 dead. Militants bombed the track and held passengers hostage during the brazen attack in a remote mountainous area. The government has since elevated rail security across the region.
The meeting also decided to launch a joint anti-encroachment operation targeting illegal occupation of railway land. The National Constabulary and Frontier Corps (FC) will support the Railways Police during the crackdown. Naqvi emphasized coordinated action, stating that reclaiming public land is essential to railway reform and safety. He praised the efforts made during Abbasi’s tenure for improving overall rail performance.
Additionally, it was agreed that a new train service would be launched between Islamabad and Rawalpindi. The ministers said the service would ease urban travel and boost daily connectivity between the twin cities. Senior officials, including Railways CEO Aamir Ali Baloch and Railways Police IG Rai Tahir, attended the meeting and endorsed the decisions taken.