Islamabad – September 2025: Pakistan Railways has reported savings of more than Rs. 1 billion on electricity bills in just eight months, a breakthrough officials attribute to the department’s aggressive move toward solar energy and its clampdown on power theft.
The update was shared during a review meeting chaired by Federal Minister for Railways, Muhammad Hanif Abbasi, who said the reforms are finally paying off. “These measures are not only reducing costs but also strengthening the financial stability of Pakistan Railways,” he noted.
According to figures presented at the meeting, the Lahore Division led the way, cutting costs by Rs. 416.6 million. Mughalpura followed with savings of Rs. 243 million, while Rawalpindi, Quetta, Karachi, Sukkur, Multan, and Peshawar divisions also made significant contributions.
Officials said the dual strategy of expanding solar power systems across railway installations and cracking down on electricity theft has proven especially effective. The minister emphasized that the campaign against power theft will continue with “zero tolerance,” warning that strict action will be taken against violators.
Observers say the achievement highlights how institutional reforms and strong implementation can drive real financial change in Pakistan’s struggling public sector enterprises. For Pakistan Railways, long plagued by debt and inefficiency, the development is being hailed as a much-needed turnaround.
