HCSTSI Calls for Railway Reforms and Hyderabad Junction Upgrade

Muhammad Saleem Memon, President of the Hyderabad Chamber of Small Traders & Small Industry (HCSTSI), has formally appealed to Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Federal Minister for Railways Muhammad Hanif Abbasi for urgent improvements to Pakistan Railways’ cargo services and the modernization of the Hyderabad Railway Junction.

Memon stressed the rising importance of dependable and economical logistical solutions in today’s fast-paced business environment, especially with the growth of online retail. Despite its broad infrastructure, Pakistan Railways’ effectiveness is seriously hampered by persistent mismanagement and outdated amenities.

The HCSTSI President emphasized that, despite having the most affordable freight rates, Pakistan Railways is unable to effectively compete with private logistics firms due to sluggish service, subpar operational procedures, and inadequate response to client concerns. He suggested a public-private partnership strategy in which private businesses would handle operations and Pakistan Railways would supply the infrastructure, increasing productivity, dependability, and profitability.

Saleem Memon voiced deep worries about the deteriorating state of the Hyderabad Railway Junction, emphasizing its significance as a crucial entry point for millions of people in Sindh’s interior. The station is currently in terrible shape, with dilapidated platforms, damaged tracks, inadequate sanitation, and a lack of personnel at information and complaint desks, which is causing great inconvenience to travelers. The station lacks essential facilities, and dangerous, unhygienic foods are sold openly, posing major health risks. He bemoaned the absence of amenities for accompanying passengers and the lack of suitable arrangements for senior citizens and female travelers, emphasizing the urgent need for government action.

Chamber President Saleem Memon proposed that the Hyderabad Railway Station be transformed into a modern commercial center with a dedicated cargo terminal, digitized operations, and world-class passenger facilities. He suggested leasing commercial spaces within the station to well-known brands in order to produce more money and foster a cleaner, more appealing environment. He also emphasized the necessity of maintaining strict quality control over food vendors and cleanliness standards within the station’s boundaries.

Saleem Memon asserted that Pakistan needs to take decisive action in this direction. He observed that the e-commerce sector in Pakistan is rapidly expanding, and that if Pakistan Railways positions itself well, it will be able to greatly increase revenues and support the national economy.

In conclusion, the President of HCSTSI strongly urged the government to begin immediate restoration work on the Hyderabad Railway Junction and to implement comprehensive reforms in the railway’s cargo services in order to rebuild public trust, encourage business activity, and transform Pakistan Railways into a contemporary, profitable organization. He reaffirmed the Chamber’s unwavering commitment to assisting at all levels and offered to provide practical recommendations in support of the government’s reform efforts.