Daily Times

Sir: The tragic train accidents clearly show the incompetence of the administration that has failed time and again to provide safe and secure railway services to its passengers. Train accidents are becoming common in Pakistan due to political interference, nepotism, corruption, poor maintenance of tracks and bridges as well as mismanagement in almost every field. Pakistan inherited miles of tracks from the British but with the passage of time, the Railways have seen decades of decline due to corruption, mismanagement and underinvestment. We see metro bus projects that are being implemented at the cost of billions of rupees to benefit a small segment of the population, whereas if such a huge amount is spent on the railways, it would benefit a large population and save lives from accidents. The Railways should replace its old tracks as soon as possible.

Efficient railway infrastructure including new engines, bogies, tracks and bridges needs to be acquired. The passenger trains will not only reduce road congestion but also provide comfortable and economical travelling to the millions of commuters across the country. This will reduce pollution, save on fuel cost and help revive our economy. The government should restructure and arrange an ample budget for the Railways.

FATIMA MANSOOR

Rawalpindi