The Sukkur Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SCCI) has raised a loud alarm over the catastrophic condition of the Sukkur Express, calling for the Federal Minister for Railways to step in without delay.
A Collective Voice of Protest
In a strongly-worded statement issued on Monday, the chamber's leadership united in their condemnation. SCCI President Muhammad Khalid Kakizai, Senior Vice President Amit Kumar, Vice President Malik Muhammad Owais Rais, and Railways Committee Convener Khurshid Azam Shamshi voiced the frustrations heard from countless members and citizens. They highlighted a particularly distressing routine where AC and economy class coaches are arbitrarily detached at Karachi Station. This irresponsible act leaves passengers stranded and in significant distress, disrupting their crucial journeys.
Deplorable Conditions Onboard
The problems extend far beyond arbitrary scheduling. The chamber detailed a horrifying list of onboard issues that make travel a nightmare. The train's hygiene was described as abysmal. Passengers are forced to endure broken fans and lights, unusable washrooms, and non-functional doors. To make matters worse, infestations of insects plague the carriages, creating an unhealthy and unacceptable environment for travel.
The leadership emphasized that this level of service is simply not acceptable for a train that serves as an essential lifeline. The Sukkur Express is vital for the business community and residents of Sukkur and the surrounding regions, connecting them to economic hubs.
Demands for Immediate Action
To restore dignity and functionality to this critical service, the SCCI has presented a clear set of demands to the government. They have insisted that new coaches be allocated specifically for the Sukkur Express for both its up and down journeys. Furthermore, they demand the installation of a dedicated operator lift at Rohri Station to assist elderly and disabled passengers. The chamber has also called for the immediate reopening of the Goods offices in both Rohri and Sukkur.
Expressing a measure of faith, the statement concluded that they trust the Federal Railways Minister will prioritize these urgent demands. The goal is a clear and necessary one: to restore dignity to Pakistan Railways' services and provide the people of Sukkur with the reliable transport they deserve.
