Samjootha Express tragedy not to affect peace talks: Sheikh Rashid
26 February, 2007
CHAKWAL: The federal minister for Railways, Sheikh Rashid Ahmad has said that the Samjootha Express tragedy would in no way affect the ongoing peace talks. While addressing the foundation stone of revival of Mandra to Bhaun Railway track and talking to journalists after the event he said that the government was awaiting the details of the incident, as Indian government was busy investigating the case. He expressed his belief that the Indian government would take Pakistan into confidence, and said that the future security of such trains would be entrusted to Pakistan Rangers. While addressing a public rally, he said that Presidential election would be held well before the General elections and was more important than the general elections themselves, in which Punjab would play a decisive role, in determining the sincerity and viability of the present government. He accused MMA of sheer hypocrisy, since their words and actions don't match, and most of the component parties don't even offer prayers together. He also announced the construction of an ultra modern Mandra-Bhoon railway station incurring an expenditure of Rs. 2 billion, while all the adjoining railways estate would be sold. He issued directives to the divisional superintendent to carry out a comprehensive survey of the locality and set-up a beautiful park adjoining the station. The event was also addressed by Punjab Parliamentary secretary , Ijaz Hussain Farhat, and district nazim of Mandra, Sardar Ghulam Abbas.
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