ISLAMABAD — Pakistan Railways inducted 40 high-quality freight wagons locally manufactured through technology transfer from China, the railways said in a statement.

"The railways have taken a significant step toward self-reliance by adding the international standard wagons for freight trains," according to the statement.

The "modern wagons" were inaugurated at a railway station in east Lahore district by Chief Executive Officer Aamir Ali Baloch, who said local production marks a crucial move in reducing dependency on imports and conserving foreign exchange.

The new design allows freight trains to transport containers efficiently, enhancing their versatility, he said.

"In the past, the low speed of freight trains resulted in considerable delays in the transportation of commercial goods. The inclusion of these new wagons in our fleet will increase the speed of freight trains to 100 kilometers per hour," Baloch said.

This advancement will not only expedite freight services but also contribute significantly to the national economy, he added.

The locally manufactured wagons are expected to boost Pakistan Railways' freight revenue by over 9 billion rupees ($32 million) annually, providing much-needed financial stability to the institution, he said.

With China's cooperation, 820 new wagons will be integrated into the railway system by the end of the fiscal year 2025-26, the statement quoted the official as saying.

The cooperation reflects Pakistan Railways' dedication to modernization and efficiency, setting a new standard in the country's transportation sector, he said.

Xinhua - China Daily