Lahore, March 15, 2025: The government has announced Rs. 5.2 million in compensation for the families of those killed in the Jaffer Express attack, along with railway department jobs for their children.
Speaking at a press conference at the Railways Headquarters in Lahore, Railways Minister Hanif Abbasi accused opposition party Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) and Indian entities of exploiting the attack for political gains while ignoring the sacrifices of Pakistan’s military.
Abbasi claimed that PTI was receiving “millions, even billions” to push a certain narrative. He praised the swift response of Pakistan’s armed forces, stating, “Commandos prevented suicide bombers from detonating inside the train.”
He also warned of rising terrorism threats, with domestic facilitators aiding attacks, and alleged that India was attempting to destabilize Pakistan, particularly targeting the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).
“Pakistan, as the first nuclear-armed Islamic country, remains a thorn in the world’s eye,” he remarked.
Abbasi urged all political parties to set aside their differences for national security, stating: “Now is the time to come together on one platform.”
He also condemned misinformation campaigns on social media, calling them a form of digital terrorism, and vowed to counter both online and armed threats.
Addressing Pakistan Railways0’ challenges, Abbasi outlined a comprehensive plan to upgrade railway infrastructure, improve security at railway stations, revive stalled projects and strengthen railway scanners and police resources.
“We want a green Pakistan with a transparent railway system. There will be no compromises,” he asserted.
The minister also revealed that the government was reclaiming encroached railway lands in Karachi, Faisalabad, Rawalpindi, and Sukkur, emphasizing that economic stability and national security go hand in hand.