PR inks accords on installing optical fiber cables

LAHORE:Pakistan Railways (PR) has signed agreements with two companies for the installation of optical fiber cables. Under the accords made with Chinese and Pakistani companies, the PR will provide the right of way for laying the optical fiber cables. The Chinese company will lay the cable from Keamari to Peshawar Cantt along the ML-1 route, for which the PR has received Rs256 million in advance. The second agreement allows a Pakistani company to use the right of way from Keamari to Lodhran, with an advance payment of Rs135 million already made to the PR. These agreements are initially for a period of three years with the possibility of extension.

Signing the accords on behalf of the PR, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Aamir Ali Baloch said the PR is exploring various avenues to increase its revenue, and the optical fiber cable agreements mark a significant step in enhancing the railway's revenue streams. He said partnerships with national and international companies are a positive development that could pave the way for more such ventures in the future.

Baloch mentioned that Quetta Division has been tasked with restoring its connection with the rest of the country within two weeks. If the security situation improves, train services will be resumed immediately. He also noted that train schedules across the country have been affected by the ongoing rains, but significant improvements are expected by the end of the month.