ISLAMABAD: Pakistan Railways has announced a relief for the passengers through reduction in fares for all classes of passenger trains, effective from August 3.
According to a spokesperson for Pakistan Railways, the fares for AC class tickets will be reduced by 100 to 150 rupees, while economy class tickets will see a reduction of 50 rupees. This fare reduction will apply to all passenger trains across the country starting from August 3.
Earlier, in response to the rising demand during the summer vacation season, Pakistan Railways launched a special train service from Karachi. The summer vacation special train began its journey today, albeit two hours behind schedule, carrying over 1,000 passengers.
Despite the delay, the special train generated significant revenue, with earnings exceeding 4 million rupees.
This initiative is designed to meet the surge in travel during the summer holidays, with the special service operating every two days throughout July.
The launch of this special train service highlights Pakistan Railways’ commitment to accommodating the increased travel needs of passengers during peak holiday periods, offering a convenient and affordable travel option for families and individuals alike.
Earlier, Pakistan Railways has announced a significant transition to a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model for the operation of numerous train services.
This strategic move aims to enhance the quality of services and introduce modern facilities across the railway network.
According to a spokesperson from Pakistan Railways, the transition will include several prominent trains. The list comprises the Karakoram Express, Karachi Express, Awam Express, Green Line Express, Mehr Express, Chenab Express, Saman Sarkar Express, Mohenjo Daro Passenger, Pak Business Express, Bolan Mail, Thal Express, Sukkur Express, Marvi Express, Chaman Express, and Hazara Express.
Additionally, other trains such as the Shalimar Express, Bahauddin Zakariya Express, Kohat Express, Mehran Express, Attock Passenger, Jand Passenger, and Rawalpindi Passenger will also be operated under the PPP model.
The Chief Executive Officer of Pakistan Railways, Amir Ali Baloch, expressed optimism about this transition, highlighting the expected improvements in service quality and passenger experience.
He emphasized that the PPP model would bring top-notch facilities and services to these trains, enhancing the overall travel experience for passengers.
One of the significant improvements already implemented includes the upgrade of dining cars. Premium dining options have been introduced on the Tezgam and Zakariya Express trains, providing passengers with a more luxurious and enjoyable dining experience during their journey. Baloch assured that similar upgrades would be rolled out across other trains under the PPP model.
Furthermore, Baloch mentioned that executive washrooms have been constructed at the Lahore Railway Station, which have received positive feedback from passengers.
He assured that similar facilities are planned for all major railway stations across the country within the next three months. This initiative is part of a broader effort to modernize railway infrastructure and improve passenger amenities.
The transition to the PPP model represents a crucial step for Pakistan Railways in its efforts to modernize and enhance the efficiency of its services.
By partnering with private entities, Pakistan Railways aims to leverage private sector expertise and investment to provide better services, improve operational efficiency, and ensure a higher standard of travel for passengers.
