Stalled on the Tracks: Institutional Failures and Comparative Reform Analysis of Pakistan Railways

Abstract

Pakistan Railways has been in long-term decline, facing issues like poor service delivery, financial losses, and weak governance. Although various reform plans have been proposed over the years, most reforms failed due to poor implementation, political interference, and lack of continuity. This research aims to examine why these reforms did not succeed and to identify the main challenges in improving the railway sector. In this study we used a qualitative research approach based on thematic analysis. During Research process data was collected through semi-structured interviews with officials from the Ministry of Railways and other relevant departments. Secondary sources such as reports, articles, and policy documents were also reviewed. Key findings show that the main problems include lack of strategic planning, political inconsistency, weak institutional structure, financial constraints, and limited use of technology. The study also focuses on successful reform would require stronger leadership, reduced government interference, improved planning, and better public-private partnerships. This research contributes to the understanding of why state-owned enterprises like Pakistan Railways continue to underperform. It also offers practical policy recommendations to make the sector more efficient, competitive, and sustainable in the future.