Federal Minister for Railways Hanif Abbasi has announced that the Islamabad-Tehran-Istanbul train service will be restored from December 31, marking a key step in strengthening regional connectivity through rail links.

Speaking at a press conference in Lahore on Sunday, Abbasi said Pakistan Railways is laying a new 400-kilometre track, which is expected to be completed by 2028.

He added that efforts were underway to upgrade the railway system on modern lines.

Abbasi said major upgrades were being introduced across the network, noting that Karachi Railway Station had been significantly expanded, while transparency was ensured in new staff recruitments.

He said passenger train services had also improved, with the ministry committed to providing travellers with maximum comfort and facilities.

“I never ignore any issue related to railways,” he remarked.

The minister said cleanliness systems on trains running between Lahore and Rawalpindi had been enhanced, and a $2 billion project for track upgradation was in the pipeline.

Abbasi said Pakistan had strong trade ties with Iran and Türkiye, and that the government was actively working to restore the Islamabad-Tehran-Istanbul service.

He said cafeterias and internet access were being introduced at railway stations to enhance passenger experience.

He added that the ministry was also collaborating with Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz on the “Clean Punjab Project,” and that train drivers’ rest rooms would soon be renovated.

The federal minister said honest officers were being appointed to curb corruption and theft in the railways, while efforts were underway to digitise railway operations.