In a major step towards modernization, Pakistan Railways and Allied Bank Limited (ABL) have entered into a strategic partnership to install state-of-the-art Point of Sale (POS) systems across 348 railway stations. The signing ceremony, held in Islamabad, was presided over by Federal Minister for Railways Muhammad Hanif Abbasi.
Speaking at the event, Minister Abbasi called the project a milestone in the journey towards a fully digital Pakistan Railways. “We’re moving fast to digitize every aspect of the railways in line with the Prime Minister’s Digital Pakistan vision,” he said. “This partnership with ABL shows how teamwork between public institutions and private banks can build a more modern and efficient state.”
According to the plan, within the next 60 days, passengers will be able to use their credit or debit cards for ticket purchases and other payments, making travel smoother and more convenient. The digital rollout will reduce the need for cash, shorten queues, and bring more accuracy to daily operations.
Minister Abbasi also pointed out that the new system would allow for real-time revenue tracking, helping reduce fraud, theft, and errors while promoting greater transparency and accountability.
Beyond just ticketing, the initiative will also support small-scale vendors at railway stations. Thanks to ABL’s merchant services, food stalls and kiosks will soon be able to accept digital payments, giving them access to formal banking services for the first time. This inclusion effort is a boost for small business owners and a step forward in encouraging a cashless culture in everyday transactions.
The MoU was signed by Mr. Ali Raza from Pakistan Railways and Mr. Farrukh Zaib Khan from ABL. The ceremony brought together top leadership from both sides, including Chairman Pakistan Railways Syed Mazhar Ali Shah, CEO Aamir Baloch, and DS Rawalpindi Nooruddin, with divisional officers attending online. ABL was represented by senior officials including Faisal Rasheed Ghori and Sajjad Hussain.