ISLAMABAD: In a major step to improve train and passenger safety, Pakistan Railways has decided to install signal jammers in all trains to counter the growing threat of terrorism.

Officials said the move aims to prevent terrorist attacks on railway tracks and trains and protect passengers’ lives. Each train will have three signal jammers, while security patrols will also be increased along sensitive routes.

This decision follows the October 7 blast on the Jaffar Express near Shikarpur, which caused five carriages to derail and injured six passengers. The National Assembly Standing Committee on Railways decided in its recent meeting and also called for strong action against illegal land occupation on railway property.

Officials shared that out of 16,000 acres of railway land, about 3,253 acres remain illegally occupied, including 457 acres taken over by influential individuals.

At the same time, Pakistan Railways has earned Rs13.54 billion in revenue by leasing its commercial and agricultural land over the past five years. Around 14,042 acres have been leased through competitive bidding under the Railway Property and Land Rules, 2023, approved by the federal cabinet.

The Real Estate Development and Marketing Company (REDAMCO), a subsidiary of the Ministry of Railways, is leading these efforts to generate non-fare income. Officials added that Pakistan Railways will also speed up anti-encroachment drives across the country to recover land occupied by individuals, groups, and organizations.

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