Pakistan Railways vs Indian Railways: A Comparative Analysis

Pakistan Railways vs Indian Railways: A Comparative Analysis

Railways have long been the backbone of South Asia’s transport infrastructure, shaping economies, connecting communities, and influencing mobility for millions. Among the region’s most notable systems are **Pakistan Railways (PR)** and **Indian Railways (IR)**. While both share a common historical origin under British colonial rule, their journeys after independence have taken remarkably different directions. This article explores their development, strengths, challenges, and overall performance in a balanced, human-written comparison.

Historical Backgroun

Both rail networks were originally part of the expansive British Indian Railway system. After the partition in 1947, the railway assets were divided, with India inheriting a much larger and more connected rail structure. Pakistan received approximately 8,000 kilometres of track, mainly concentrated in the western region.

Over time, **India invested heavily in expanding and modernising its railways**, while Pakistan faced infrastructural and financial constraints that slowed its progress. These historical decisions continue to influence the present-day performance of both systems.

Size and Network Coverage

Indian Railways

Indian Railways is **one of the largest railway networks in the world**, covering more than **68,000 km of track** and connecting almost every major town and city. It operates thousands of trains daily, including express, mail, suburban, metro-linked, and freight services. Its vast coverage gives India a major economic advantage, ensuring accessibility even in remote areas.

Pakistan Railways

Pakistan Railways, by comparison, has a more modest network of around **7,800 km**, focusing largely on north–south connectivity. The **Karachi–Peshawar Main Line (ML-1)** remains the backbone of the system, carrying both freight and passengers. While the network covers key cities, its reach in rural areas is far more limited than India’s.

Passenger Services

India

India’s passenger services are diverse and cater to various socio-economic groups. Trains such as **Rajdhani**, **Shatabdi**, **Vande Bharat Express**, and **Duronto** offer high-speed, comfortable travel. The introduction of semi-high-speed electric trains in recent years reflects India’s commitment to modernisation.

Indian Railways transports **over 20 million passengers per day**, making it one of the busiest transport systems globally. Availability of classes—from unreserved to premium AC coaches—ensures inclusivity and affordability.

Pakistan

Pakistan Railways offers several notable trains such as the **Green Line Express**, **Khyber Mail**, and **Jafar Express**, providing reasonable comfort and affordability. However, PR’s passenger services are often criticised for **delays, ageing coaches, and limited innovation**.

With fewer daily operations compared to India, Pakistan Railways serves far fewer passengers. Despite this, its trains remain a vital mode of transport for people who cannot afford air travel or long-distance buses.

Freight Operations and Economic Importance

Indian Railways

Freight transport is a major revenue source for India, accounting for a significant portion of rail earnings. Coal, cement, steel, food grains, and petroleum products form the bulk of cargo movement.

India has also introduced **Dedicated Freight Corridors (DFC)** to increase speed, reduce congestion, and boost logistics efficiency. This investment has strengthened the country’s supply chain and industrial growth.

Pakistan Railways

Pakistan Railways also plays a role in freight transport, primarily moving coal, petroleum, containers, and agricultural products. Historically, freight revenue was a strong pillar for PR. However, due to old rolling stock, poor track conditions, and management issues, freight operations have declined.

The **China–Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC)** aims to revitalise PR through ML-1 modernisation, which could significantly enhance freight capacity in coming years.

Technology and Modernisation

India

India leads significantly in railway modernisation. Some advancements include:

Electrification of major routes

GPS-based tracking systems

Bio-toilets in coaches

Automatic train protection systems

Modern signalling and high-speed corridors

The launch of the *Vande Bharat Express*, built entirely in India, symbolises the country’s progress towards modern, energy-efficient railway technology.

Pakistan

Pakistan Railways has attempted to modernise but faces hurdles in funding, governance, and maintenance. Projects under CPEC, particularly ML-1, promise upgrades in signalling, track quality, and speed capability. PR has also introduced online ticketing and mobile apps to improve customer service.

However, compared to India’s rapid and widespread technological growth, Pakistan remains several steps behind.

Infrastructure and Safety

India

With continuous upgrades, India has improved track conditions, bridge safety, and operations management. Although train accidents still occur—often due to human error or congestion—the overall safety record has improved over the past decade.

Pakistan

Pakistan Railways faces persistent challenges with **derailments, outdated tracks, and poorly maintained coaches**. Safety concerns remain a major issue, largely due to insufficient investment and slow rehabilitation efforts.

Financial Performance

Indian Railways

Despite being massive, Indian Railways operates with relative financial stability. It does face losses in passenger segments but compensates through freight income, government funding, and commercial initiatives such as station redevelopment.

Pakistan Railways

PR has struggled with financial deficits for years. Corruption, mismanagement, and ageing infrastructure have resulted in recurring losses. The government frequently has to inject funds for operations and salaries. Without significant restructuring, PR will continue to depend heavily on state support.

Future Prospects

India

India aims to become a global railway leader with:

Bullet train projects

Widespread electrification

Smart stations

More semi-high-speed trains

Enhanced freight corridors

These initiatives position Indian Railways for major transformation over the next decade.

Pakistan

Pakistan Railways is banking on ML-1 and institutional reforms to improve operations. If successfully implemented, these changes could bring PR closer to regional standards. However, political stability, financial investment, and transparent management will be crucial.

Conclusion

While Pakistan Railways and Indian Railways share a common origin, their trajectories have diverged significantly. **Indian Railways stands as one of the world’s largest, most ambitious, and increasingly modern railway systems**, driven by strong investment and innovation. On the other hand, **Pakistan Railways, though essential to national connectivity, struggles with ageing infrastructure, financial difficulties, and slow modernisation**.

Both nations rely heavily on their rail systems, but India’s extensive network and rapid technological advancements place it far ahead in overall performance. Pakistan, however, has substantial potential—especially with ongoing reforms and international support—to revive its railway sector and better serve its population.