Pakistan Railways slashes fares by over 50 percent

Pakistan Railways has announced a significant reduction in train fares across various distances. Effective immediately, the new fares come as a welcome change for commuters, offering more affordable travel options.

The railway authorities have issued a notification outlining the fare reductions, which apply to distances ranging from 1 kilometre to 200 kilometres. Economy class fares on select trains have seen a notable decrease of up to 54%, while air-conditioned class fares have been reduced by 40%.

For instance, the minimum fare for the economy class on the Lahore to Rawalpindi route has been slashed from Rs250 to just Rs100, a move set to benefit many travelers. This adjustment is scheduled to take effect from May 21, providing immediate relief to those planning to embark on this route.

These reductions in train fares come in response to a decline in diesel prices, which directly impact operating costs for Pakistan Railways. The recent reduction in diesel prices, implemented on May 15, saw a significant decrease of Rs7.88, bringing the retail price down to Rs274.08.

While the fare cuts are a positive development for shorter routes, it’s important to note that the railway authority has yet to announce reductions for long-distance routes. Train services serve as a vital mode of transportation for inter-provincial travel, particularly for individuals journeying from Punjab and Pakhtunkhwa to Sindh. As such, passengers eagerly await potential fare adjustments for these longer routes.