Bilour demands billions to run Railways, says only 53 trains suspended temporarily

Minister for Railways Haji Ghulam Ahmad Bilour has said billions of rupees were required to run the affairs of Pakistan Railways and transform it into a profitable entity. Responding to a call attention notice moved by Shereen Arshad Khan and others in the National Assembly Friday, Haji Ghulam Ahmad Bilour rejected the impression that 115 passenger trains have been suspended saying only 53 trains were discontinued temporarily due to shortage of diesel and locomotives. As soon as the situation normalizes the train service will be restored on particular routes. He said there are only 96 locomotives for passengers and six for freight trains. Out of these 50 are out of order which is greatly affecting the work of Pakistan Railways. Responding to another call attention notice moved by Nisar Tanveer and others, Minister of State for Production Khawaja Sheraz Mehmood said branches of the National Bank of Pakistan were attacked and gold stolen during militancy in Swat. He said the bank officials are now in contact with the affected families and have assured to return the gold to their owners within one month provided they fulfill the requirements.

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