LAHORE, Dec 17 (APP): Federal Government Inspector Railways (FGIR) Amir Nisar Chaudhry carried out his annual inspection of the Lahore-Narowal-Sialkot railway section on Wednesday to review safety standards, train operations and passenger facilities.
During the inspection, the condition of the railway track, train operations and facilities available to passengers at various stations were thoroughly reviewed. Chief Executive Officer Pakistan Railways Muhammad Sufyan Sarfraz Dogar and Divisional Superintendent Railways Lahore Inamullah were also present on the occasion.
The FGIR conducted a detailed inspection of the alignment, balance and fitness of the track, bridges, way and works, as well as level crossing gates. Station buildings, station records and passenger amenities were also examined. Relevant staff at different stations were questioned regarding train operations, safety procedures and operational documentation.
As part of emergency preparedness, a practical exercise was conducted to secure a level crossing gate in case of damage. The performance of Gang No. 15 and the tools being used by them were also inspected. The Railway Material Store at Badumalhi Railway Station was visited, where available material was checked against the stock list.
While inspecting the Model Bazaar at Narang Railway Station, instructions were issued to keep all routes clear. In line with the directives of Federal Minister for Railways Muhammad Hanif Abbasi, the FGIR reiterated that all possible measures would be taken to ensure passenger convenience and the safe movement of trains.
Facilities of the Lasani Express at Shahdara Railway Station were also inspected. During the visit, fare and fines were recovered from five ticketless passengers. Encroachments, the communication system and other equipment were checked at various stations along the section.
On the occasion, cash prizes were awarded to staff members who showed outstanding performance, while strict reprimands were issued for poor performance.
A large number of senior railway officers were present during the inspection, including Chief Engineer Mechanical Muhammad Nasir Khalili, Chief Operating Superintendent Kashif Rashid Yousafani, Chief Commercial Manager Tariq Anwar Supra, Chief Engineer Open Line Irfan-ul-Haq, Chief Electrical Engineer Shafqat Jamal, Chief Engineer Signal and Telecom Irshad-ul-Haq, Director General Land Shahid Abbas Malik, Chief Medical Officer Dr. Asif, Chief Controller Purchase Riaz Hussain Zardari, Deputy Chief Engineer Bridges Usman Abdullah, Staff Officer FGIR Aamir Iqbal, and several divisional officers from Lahore Division. Divisional and assistant officers and staff were also present during the inspection.