To alleviate the financial strain on the public, Pakistan Railways has announced a significant reduction in train fares following the recent decrease in petrol and diesel prices. This initiative aims to make train travel more affordable nationwide, especially amid rising inflation.
The new fare structure applies to distances from 1 kilometer to 200 kilometers. Economy class tickets have seen the largest reduction, with prices decreasing by up to 54%. For example, the minimum economy class fare for the popular Lahore to Rawalpindi route has dropped from Rs250 to Rs100. Similarly, AC class fares have been reduced by 40%, providing substantial savings for passengers.
This fare cut follows the government’s reduction of diesel prices by Rs7.88 per liter on May 15, lowering the cost to Rs274.08 per liter. Bypassing these savings on to passengers, Pakistan Railways hopes to encourage more people to choose train travel as a cost-effective alternative to other modes of transportation.
Officials from Pakistan Railways are optimistic that the new, lower fares will attract more passengers, boosting ridership and revenue. They view this reduction as a timely measure to support the public during tough economic times. The initiative aims not only to make travel more affordable but also to help mitigate the impact of inflation on daily expenses.
In addition to lowering fares, Pakistan Railways is dedicated to enhancing the overall travel experience. Efforts are underway to improve service quality, ensure punctual train schedules, and maintain high standards of cleanliness and safety. These improvements are part of a broader strategy to make train travel more appealing and reliable.
The fare reduction announcement has been well received by the public. Passengers have expressed their gratitude for the savings, noting that the lower costs will significantly impact their daily commutes and long-distance travels. The move is expected to increase the number of train users, providing a much-needed boost to Pakistan Railways’ operations.