Pakistan Railways to Install Signal Jammers in Trains to Boost Passenger Safety
ISLAMABAD: In a bid to enhance passenger safety and prevent potential incidents, Pakistan Railways has decided to install signal jammers across all its trains. The initiative follows rising security threats and recent attacks targeting railway infrastructure.
New Safety Measures Following Recent Incidents
According to officials, the move aims to prevent sabotage and protect valuable human lives. Each train will be fitted with three signal jammers, while security patrols will also be intensified along sensitive routes. The decision was finalized after the October 7 bl@st on the Jaffar Express near Shikarpur, which injured six passengers and caused five carriages to derail.
The National Assembly Standing Committee on Railways approved the installation plan during its recent session, emphasizing the need for stronger preventive measures to secure railway passengers and infrastructure nationwide.
Crackdown on Encroachments and Land Misuse
In the same meeting, committee members discussed the long-standing issue of land encroachments on railway property. Officials disclosed that out of 16,000 acres of total land, approximately 3,253 acres remain under illegal occupation — including 457 acres held by influential individuals.
The government has vowed to take strict action against encroachers to reclaim public property. The Railways Ministry confirmed that anti-encroachment operations are being expanded nationwide to recover land from individuals, groups, and business entities involved in unauthorized occupation.
Revenue Generation and Land Leasing Initiatives
Despite ongoing challenges, Pakistan Railways has made progress in non-fare revenue generation, earning Rs 13.547 billion by leasing its commercial and agricultural land over the past five financial years.
Officials noted that nearly 14,042 acres of railway land have been leased through competitive bidding under the Railway Property and Land Rules, 2023, which were approved by the Federal Cabinet. The initiative is part of a broader strategy to transform the department into a self-sustaining and profitable entity.
The efforts are being spearheaded by the Real Estate Development and Marketing Company (REDAMCO), a subsidiary of the Ministry of Railways, to maximize land utilization and create sustainable income streams.
Commitment to Passenger Safety and Reform
Pakistan Railways’ latest steps reflect a renewed focus on both security and efficiency. By deploying signal jammers, improving surveillance, and reclaiming encroached land, the department aims to strengthen its operational capacity while ensuring safer travel for passengers nationwide.
The installation of signal jammers is expected to be completed in phases, marking a significant milestone in Pakistan Railways’ modernization and safety initiatives.
