The National Assembly was informed that the government is actively pursuing the ML-1 up-gradation project to modernize the country’s rail infrastructure, with a Chinese technical team expected to visit Pakistan soon to accelerate progress.

Minister of State for Railways Bilal Azhar Kayani briefed the House during the question hour, highlighting that the Karachi to Hyderabad rail segment falls under Package One of the ML-1 initiative.

He also noted that Pakistan Railways has outsourced commercial management of multiple trains to private contractors, leading to increased revenue.

Addressing train safety, Kayani informed that security measures have been strengthened in Balochistan following the Jaffar Express incident. Plans are in place to fence Quetta Railway Station to enhance security further.

Minister of State for National Health Services Mukhtar Ahmad Malik informed the House that a healthcare insurance scheme for federal employees is under consideration, with ongoing studies to determine service coverage under the scheme.

He also updated the House on the upgradation of Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS) in Islamabad. An Accident and Emergency Center is scheduled for completion by June, while the cancer hospital at PIMS is expected to be completed by next year.

Additionally, a new facility, Jinnah Medical Complex, will be constructed to reduce patient load at PIMS, with its groundbreaking expected in April.

Responding to a Calling Attention Notice, Bilal Azhar Kayani mentioned that Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) revenue collection has risen by 26 percent during the current fiscal year up to February. He also noted an increase in the number of tax filers and an overall improvement in economic indicators over the past year.