Pakistan Railway to suspend operations amid coronavirus spread

KARACHI: Pakistan Railway will suspend its operational services from today at 12 AM midnight amid fear of coronavirus spread.

Federal Minister for Railways Sheikh Rasheed Ahmed made the announcement last week that twelve trains would be suspended to Sindh from Sunday onwards at the request of the provincial government.

It has now been confirmed that all trains would be shut down as a precautionary measure against the global pandemic.

Among the Khushal Khan Khattak Express, Akbar Bugti Express, Sindh Express, Shah Latif Express, Ravi Express, and Rohi Express among others, all trains will be suspended.

Pakistan Railway has refunded Rs. 800 million to the passengers so far, however, the passengers have been given an option to either take a refund or avail the ticket on another train in the same class.

Pakistan Railways operates 142 trains on 1885 kilometer long track said the minister adding the government has decided to suspend only 42 trains out of 142 because railways is out of cash to pay refunds at once to all the passengers.

Read more: Pakistan Railways suspends operation of twelve trains to Karachi