Railway Advanced Infrastructure Network Project Phase I to include GPS tracking, smart stations, and high-speed internet for improved services.
Pakistan Railways has launched a major digital transformation initiative, the Railway Advanced Infrastructure Network (RAIN) Project, which is set to be completed by June 2026. The first phase of the project, which is being entirely funded by Pakistan Railways’ own revenue, marks the largest digitisation effort in the organisation’s history.
A presentation detailing the project’s progress and implementation plans was given during a meeting chaired by Railways Minister Hanif Abbasi. According to the Directorate of IT, Phase I will include the introduction of GPS tracking for all trains and locomotives, as well as the establishment of safe, smart railway stations in major cities, following the successful model of the Rawalpindi station.
The RAIN initiative will also provide high-speed internet at selected railway stations and establish command and control centres at the Lahore headquarters and divisional offices. The project involves the “fiberisation” of 1,700 kilometres of the ML-1 railway network, enabling real-time monitoring and data-driven decision-making.
Minister Abbasi emphasised that the RAIN Project would help reduce train delays and accidents, enhance passenger services, and improve operational efficiency. He stated that the new command and control systems would enable rapid responses in emergencies, marking a major step towards modernising Pakistan Railways into a safer, more efficient, and passenger-centric organization.
In a related development, the Senate Standing Committee on Railways elected Senator Shahadat Awan as its new chairman during a meeting at Parliament House. The election was supported by Senators Ashraf Ali Jatoi, Dost Ali Jeesar, Rubina Khalid, and Nasir Mahmood. Senator Jeesar proposed Senator Awan’s name, which was seconded by Senator Jatoi.
