ISLAMABAD - Minister of State for Railways Bilal Azhar Kayani Saturday met with a high-level World Bank (WB) delegation and discussed the key initiatives for the modernisation of Pakistan Railways (PR).
The delegation, comprising transport sector experts and led by Jen Jungeun Oh, Practice Manager for South Asia at the WB, shared insights and global best practices in railway operations, drawing on successful models from around the world.
During the meeting, the WB team presented several proposals aimed at enhancing the efficiency and effectiveness of Pakistan Railways.
Bilal Kayani welcomed the suggestions and directed the Ministry of Railways to begin implementing practical steps based on these recommendations. He particularly endorsed initiatives focused on expanding freight services and attracting private sector investment in the railway sector.
The minister also highlighted outcomes from recent consultations with the WB and the International Finance Corporation (IFC), reiterating Pakistan Railways’ commitment to privatisation and infrastructure development.
The delegation expressed satisfaction with the government’s ongoing reform efforts, especially its focus on increasing private sector participation in railway projects.
They reaffirmed the WB’s commitment to providing technical support for railway modernization initiatives. Bilal Kayani thanked the WB for its continued assistance and expressed hope that the IFC will also consider direct investment in Pakistan Railways’ future projects.