Pakistan’s First AI Security System Installed at Rawalpindi Railway Station
Federal Minister for Railways Hanif Abbasi inaugurated Pakistan’s first-ever Safe and Smart Railway Station at Rawalpindi Railway Station on Thursday, marking a major step towards digital transformation and modernisation of the country’s railway network.
Developed in collaboration with the Frontier Works Organisation (FWO), the Smart Station System includes a high-tech surveillance network of 143 CCTV cameras, ensuring round-the-clock monitoring of platforms, reservation offices, and surrounding areas.
Speaking at the inauguration, Minister Abbasi said Rawalpindi Station is now the first railway station in Pakistan equipped with an advanced security monitoring and smart management system. “This system will enhance passenger safety, improve staff performance monitoring, and ensure efficient station operations,” he said.
Passenger Facilities and Modern Infrastructure
The upgraded Commercially Important Person (CIP) Lounge and new waiting areas offer passengers a modern, peaceful environment with tea and refreshment services, free Wi-Fi, ATM facilities, and separate waiting areas for women and families.
Abbasi added that Pakistan Railways is replacing old coach racks with refurbished ones to improve travel comfort. “Three railcars on the Lahore–Rawalpindi route have already been upgraded, and the fourth will be replaced by November 15,” he said. The introduction of complimentary snacks on railcars further enhances the passenger experience.
Nationwide Modernization Drive
The minister noted that Faisalabad Railway Station has been renovated to modern standards, while Karachi Cantonment Station will soon be inaugurated with an even more advanced CIP lounge and waiting areas. “Pakistan Railways is moving towards becoming a modern, safe, and passenger-friendly transport system. The journey of progress continues,” he emphasized.
Upcoming Development Projects
Under the government’s modernization vision, FWO will upgrade the 884-kilometre Rohri–Nokundi railway track, including the construction of 400 km of new track along the ML-1, ML-2, and ML-3 junctions. Funded by the Asian Development Bank (ADB), the project will be completed within three years.
The minister also revealed updates on international connectivity projects. The Islamabad–Tehran–Istanbul train service is expected to launch by December 31, and a new Pakistan–Afghanistan–Uzbekistan railway link is under development. Tajikistan has agreed to finance a section of this project extending through Turkmenistan, Kandahar, Herat, and Chaman, boosting regional trade and connectivity with Central Asia, Russia, and Europe.
Focus on Employees and Education
Abbasi said three of the 14 railway schools have been outsourced to provide quality education for children of railway employees at affordable fees of Rs1,000–1,500 per month, with modern, air-conditioned classrooms and advanced science labs. Pakistan Railways will receive 17% revenue share from these schools. Similarly, railway hospitals have been outsourced to provide free healthcare for railway employees and their families.
He added that improved housing and facilities for train drivers are being planned within the next six months, as part of the ongoing Railways modernization and welfare program.
“The vision is clear. Pakistan Railways is transforming into a modern, smart, and passenger-focused system. Our mission is to ensure safety, comfort, and innovation across every route,” Abbasi concluded.