Pakistan Railways has announced a 10% fare reduction for all air-conditioned classes on express and mail trains, as well as for economy class on passenger trains. This fare cut will start on September 23, making travel more affordable for passengers.
In addition to lowering fares, Pakistan Railways is planning to run 10 passenger trains through a public-private partnership (PPP). This means that some trains will be handed over to private companies to operate. The first phase of this plan will begin soon, with applications being invited from interested private operators. On the same day, technical bids will be opened to review the submissions.
Some of the main trains that will be privatized include the Karachi Express, Awam Express, Hazara Express, Bahauddin Zakariya Express, Mehr Express, Sukkur Express, Chenab Express, Mehran Express, Mohenjodaro Passenger Train, and Rawalpindi Passenger Train. These trains will be run in collaboration with private operators to improve services.
The aim of this partnership is to enhance the quality of service and efficiency of train operations in the country, making train travel more convenient and comfortable for everyone.