SIALKOT: Model Customs Collectorate Additional Collector Faiz Ali said that starting a cargo train for carrying consignments from Sialkot Dry Port Trust to Karachi port will facilitate the traders, as it is safe source of transportation.
The additional collector was responding to a query regarding the plan of Pakistan Railways to start a cargo train from SDPT to Karachi port to load export consignments.
Talking to Customs Today, Sialkot Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SCCI) Senior Vice President Adnan Arshad told that the cargo train was very appropriate to boost export from Sialkot, adding that the railways should start this service as soon as possible.
An official of Pakistan Railways told that the process to start the train was underway. He further said that the train will be run on track from SDPT to Karachi port soon in order to facilitate exporters and importers. He informed that experts have paid visit to the site to prepare a feasibility report, in this regard.
Currently, the containers of export consignments are transported through 40 feet and 20 feet long loading vehicles but the train system is much better for consignment loading.
It may be mentioned here that management of SCCI and other business associations have already sent requests to Ministry of Pakistan Railways with regard to launch a cargo train from SDPT to Karachi port to facilitate the exporters and importers. It is learnt that the ministry has considered the request of SCCI and other associations. The trains will be proven beneficial for traders of Gujranwala, Gujrat and other nearby cities.
