Federal Minister for Railways Hanif Abbasi and Balochistan Chief Minister Sarfraz Bugti have formally inaugurated the Jinnah Peoples Train Service, marking the launch of the province’s first mass transit train service
The service is aimed at providing residents of Quetta and surrounding areas with a safe, comfortable, reliable and affordable mode of transportation.
The project has been completed through collaboration between the Government of Balochistan and Pakistan Railways. Under the project, the 32-kilometre railway track between Sariab and Kuchlak was fully upgraded and restored.
The project was completed in a record 120 days at an estimated cost of around Rs3 billion.
The Jinnah Peoples Train route includes seven stations: Kuchlak, Baleli, Sheikh Manda, GOR Halt, Quetta, Lower Karez Halt and Sariab. Various development and upgrading works have also been completed at these stations to improve facilities for passengers.
The project included the installation of new turntables at Sariab and Kuchlak stations, upgrading of both stations, improvements at Sheikh Manda Station and construction and renovation work at Baleli Station.
GOR Halt was also reconstructed and equipped with solar power, electrical facilities and new furniture and benches for passengers.
The Quetta Station was upgraded, while construction and completion works were also carried out at Lower Karez Halt.
Officials said the new service is expected to provide residents of Quetta and nearby areas with a more accessible and affordable transportation option.
