Pakistan Railways to produce high-capacity wagons locally

The Pakistan Railways (PR) plans to locally manufacture as many as 295 high-capacity wagons with Chinese assistance by March and the related manufacturing units have been assigned targets in this regard.

Officials confirmed that over 170 high-speed passenger coaches, including brake vans, are expected to be completed by June 2027. Furthermore, the railway department aims to upgrade rolling stock as part of a broader modernization plan. PR General Manager for Manufacturing and Services, Ghulam Qasim, said the initiative began four years ago with orders for 820 wagons and 230 coaches under a technology transfer agreement with China.

He explained that China manufactured 200 wagons and 46 passenger coaches while simultaneously training Pakistani personnel. Currently, Chinese engineers are assisting local teams as the remaining production takes place at PR carriage factories and workshops. So far, Pakistan Railways has completed 325 wagons domestically, including 200 semi-knocked-down units and 95 completely knocked-down units. The 200 wagons produced in China included 70 flat container wagons, 70 high-sided open-top wagons, 20 covered wagons, and 20 brake vans.

Qasim added that the Risalpur factory and Mughalpura workshops in Lahore will handle the remaining 295 wagons. The production will start on November 25 and continue in phases until March 30. The officials highlighted that this effort will not only increase the capacity of freight and passenger services but also improve efficiency, safety, and comfort for travelers. Moreover, the technology transfer is expected to strengthen local manufacturing skills, reduce reliance on imports, and boost Pakistan’s rail infrastructure capabilities.