Train service on 10 branch routes closed unannounced

The delaying of trains has become a rather accepted routine in Pakistan, but the recent weeks have seen rapid closure of trains. Railways has now closed down trains on 10 branch lines, including to Faisalabad, Sargodha, Narowal and Pakpattan among other areas. Sargodha, Chenab and Faiz Ahmed Faiz Express have also been closed.Rail authorities say the trains have been shut because engines are not available.Railways Minister Ghulam Ahmed Bilour has been threatening closure of trains, citing shortage of engines and locomotives. The federal government has claimed giving Rs 2 billion out of the Rs 11 billion bailout package for Railways. Bilour comes from the Awami National Party, an ally of the PPP government.In a shocking statement the other day, Acting GM Railways said the government is considering closing down 40 to 50 trains to “overcome crisis”. He didnt release a timetable or a plan for closure though.He said this while addressing a press conference Saturday at Railways Headquarters in Lahore. He had regretted difficulties to passengers caused by late arrival of trains, saying the situation will improve soon, though he didn’t elaborate how shutting of trains would improve travel.He admitted the government had approved assistance package for Railways under which 100 old engines, 500 passenger coaches, 660 goods wagons and 50 power vans will be repaired.