Islamabad: Pakistan Railways has initiated a major programme to digitise its network under the Railway Advanced Infrastructure Network (RAIN) Project, with Phase I scheduled for completion by June 2026. The project includes introducing GPS tracking for all trains and locomotives and modernising railway stations across major cities.
During a meeting chaired by Railways Minister Hanif Abbasi on Monday, the Directorate of IT presented a detailed briefing on the progress and execution plan for RAIN Phase I. The minister was assured that the project, to be implemented solely by Pakistan Railways and the largest digitisation effort in its history, is on track for timely completion.
According to the Directorate of IT, the project will be fully funded using Pakistan Railways’ own revenue, highlighting the organisation’s financial independence and operational sustainability.
Key components of Phase I include GPS tracking systems for all trains and locomotives, alongside the development of safe, smart railway stations in major cities, modelled after the successful Rawalpindi station. The initiative will also provide high-speed internet at selected stations and establish command and control centres at the Lahore headquarters and divisional offices. It further involves the “fiberisation” of 1,700 kilometres of the ML-1 railway network to enable real-time monitoring and data-driven decision-making.
Minister Abbasi highlighted that the RAIN Project will significantly reduce train delays and accidents, improve passenger services, and enhance overall operational efficiency. The upgraded command and control systems are expected to ensure rapid and effective responses in emergencies. Abbasi emphasised that the RAIN Project is a transformative step towards modernising Pakistan Railways, making it safer, more efficient, and passenger-centric.
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