ISLAMABAD, Oct 07 (ABC): Pakistan Railways has approached the Punjab Archaeology Department for the restoration of the historic British-era Khewra Railway Station as a tourist attraction.
According to documents available with Wealth Pakistan, the station has remained non-operational since passenger services ceased in 2011. Over the years, its building, platforms and associated railway infrastructure have deteriorated.
The Chalisa-Khewra railway section was opened in August 1887, primarily to transport rock salt, coal and other minerals. It also provided passenger services to communities in the surrounding areas.
Railway supported Khewra’s industrial development
The railway played an important role in the industrial development of Khewra and the Salt Range. Its significance increased with the establishment and expansion of industries, including Imperial Chemical Industries (ICI) and later Lucky Core Industries (LCI).
However, the growing use of road transport gradually reduced railway freight from the 1990s onwards. Passenger services eventually ceased in 2011, leaving Khewra Railway Station non-operational.
Since then, the station building, platforms and associated railway infrastructure have suffered deterioration.
Restoration aimed at tourism
Pakistan Railways has now approached the Punjab Archaeology Department to restore the historic station building. The proposed restoration is aimed at preserving the railway heritage and developing the site as a tourist attraction.
