Islamabad, June 2, 2025 – In a major relief for holiday travelers, Pakistan Railways has announced a 20% fare discount during the three days of Eid-ul-Adha.
The Federal Minister for Railways, Muhammad Hanif Abbasi, also revealed that Pakistan Railways will operate five special Eid trains to facilitate the nationwide passenger surge.
Speaking to the media, Abbasi highlighted what he called a “historic turnaround” for Pakistan Railways over the past 11 months. He proudly declared that the department has achieved a record-breaking Rs83 billion in revenue, with Rs42 billion coming from passenger trains, Rs29 billion from freight operations, and Rs13 billion from various other sources.
For the first time in its long history, Pakistan Railways is independently covering its salary and medical expenses without relying on government bailouts. Abbasi emphasized that freight services remain a crucial revenue engine, and the ministry plans to outsource these operations for improved efficiency.
Additionally, Pakistan Railways is monetizing its leased land assets and streamlining the outsourcing of properties like the Royal Palm Golf and Country Club, all under Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s reform vision. Hospitals and schools operated by Pakistan Railways are also being upgraded and outsourced, with railway employees retaining access to free services while others will pay market-based fees.
Abbasi announced that cleanliness standards have significantly improved at stations such as Chaklala and Margalla, while food services are now monitored by all four provincial food authorities. Infrastructure upgrades are ongoing, and front-desk plus train hostess services will soon enhance passenger experiences.
A vigorous anti-encroachment campaign—modeled after Punjab’s initiative—is set to reclaim vast swaths of railway land for productive use. As part of the Green Pakistan initiative, thousands of trees will be planted along the tracks.
Looking ahead, Pakistan Railways is launching a Rs45 billion development plan in Punjab aimed at boosting train speeds to 60 km/h. A new passenger service between Lahore and Narowal will begin June 15, coinciding with the dispatch of a freight train to Russia.
Pakistan Railways is also developing key international links with Kazakhstan to support the transport of Reko Diq and Thar coal resources—securing the country’s economic future through strategic rail expansion.