Pakistan Railways Penalizes 97 Officials Over Corruption Charges, Implements Reforms

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan Railways has taken action against more than 97 officials over the last five years on corruption charges as part of its broader efforts to combat malpractices within the department, according to an official from the Ministry.

In an effort to curb corruption, several initiatives have been introduced, including the deployment of ticket vending machines and an online reservation system aimed at preventing black market ticket sales. The Ministry has also established a dedicated task team to monitor irregularities and ensure staff attendance across the organization.

To address ticketless passengers, daily campaigns led by Special Ticket Examiners (STEs) and officers are being conducted in various divisions. These campaigns impose penalties on passengers found traveling without tickets.

Additionally, Pakistan Railways has shifted pension payments to an online banking system to facilitate pensioners and eliminate the issue of ghost pensioners within the department. Auctions are now held transparently, overseen by designated committees, with payments being verified through Divisional Accounts Officers (DAO).

To address grievances, the department holds monthly E-Kacheri and Khuli Kacheri sessions to resolve issues raised by staff, pensioners, and the general public. Vigilance offices have also been established to handle corruption complaints from both the public and Railway staff.

Regular performance review meetings are held to ensure the prompt resolution of disciplinary cases involving employees. Furthermore, focal persons from all Pakistan Railways departments have been appointed to swiftly address complaints submitted through the Prime Minister’s Performance Delivery Unit (PMDU).

These measures reflect Pakistan Railways’ ongoing commitment to transparency and accountability as it works to modernize its operations and improve service delivery.