Federal Minister for Railways Muhammad Hanif Abbasi said on Saturday that the government is placing strong focus on the development of Pakistan Railways, especially the ML-1 railway corridor.
Speaking in a televised interview, he shared that the aim is to upgrade the railway network to meet global standards.
Alongside this, efforts are being made to enhance governance and introduce modern systems in the department.
He mentioned that the Punjab government plans to invest Rs350 billion to improve eight branch lines within the province.
He added that 40 railway stations in Punjab would be given free Wi-Fi access. Talks are also ongoing with the Sindh government to undertake similar improvements on railway lines there.
“Once operational, ML-1 will significantly benefit the public. Meanwhile, preparations for investment in ML-2 are also underway,” he stated.
Addressing a question about the events of May 10 and the conflict with India, the minister said Pakistan had successfully taken down six enemy aircraft without crossing its own borders. “We defeated a country ten times bigger than us,” he said.
He echoed the Prime Minister’s message that any Indian attempt to block Pakistan’s water would be treated as an act of war.
He also highlighted the support Pakistan received during the conflict, naming countries like China, Azerbaijan, Bangladesh, and Turkey, which stood by its side.
The minister concluded by stressing national unity, noting that in difficult times, people from all provinces and communities, Balochis, Sindhis, Punjabis, Pashtuns, Kashmiris, and Saraikis, rallied behind the Pakistan Army as one nation.