Islamabad: Pakistan Railways has announced a 20% discount on tickets for passengers on the occasion of Eid-ul-Fitr, along with the operation of five special trains to facilitate travelers visiting their loved ones.
The initiative aims to provide maximum convenience and a seamless travel experience during the festive holidays.
Federal Minister for Railways, Hanif Abbasi, made the announcement on Saturday, stating that on the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd day of Eid-ul-Fitr 2025, a 20% reduction in fares will be applicable to all mail, express, passenger, and intercity trains across all classes. This move is part of Pakistan Railways’ broader strategy to support citizens and make holiday travel more affordable.
To further ease travel congestion, five Eid-ul-Fitr special trains will be operated. The first special train will depart from Karachi Cantt Station to Lahore on March 26. This train will consist of approximately 16 coaches and will reach Lahore the next day via Hyderabad, Rohri, Multan, and Sahiwal.
The second special train will also depart on March 26, traveling from Quetta to Peshawar Cantt with around 11 coaches, passing through Multan and Sahiwal. The third train will run on March 27, departing from Lahore to Karachi, comprising 16 coaches, and traveling via Khanewal, Multan, Sahiwal, and Rohri.
On March 27, the fourth special train will leave Karachi City Station for Rawalpindi, featuring 14 coaches, and will reach its destination via Faisalabad, Sargodha, and Lala Musa. The fifth and final special Eid-ul-Fitr train is scheduled for March 28, departing from Karachi Cantt to Lahore, with 16 coaches, via Multan and Faisalabad.
Pakistan Railways has ensured that all special Eid-ul-Fitr trains will include Economy Class, AC Business, and AC Standard Class coaches, giving passengers the flexibility to choose according to their comfort and budget. The Pakistan Railways Headquarters has issued directives to all relevant divisions, and advance bookings have already begun.
Minister Hanif Abbasi has instructed officials to make all necessary arrangements to ensure the smooth operation of these special services. Divisional Superintendents (DSs) have been directed to be present at their respective stations during departures to oversee operations and provide maximum assistance to travelers. He also warned that any negligence in duty will not be tolerated and strict action will be taken against staff failing to fulfill their responsibilities.
In addition to the Eid-ul-Fitr arrangements, Pakistan Railways is working on a comprehensive Adoption Policy aimed at upgrading travel facilities for trains running between Peshawar and Karachi. This policy will enhance passenger coaches and station infrastructure to provide a more comfortable and modern travel experience.
With a firm commitment to passenger convenience and safety, Pakistan Railways is dedicated to utilizing all available resources to ensure the smooth and timely operation of Eid-ul-Fitr special trains. The minister emphasized that this initiative reflects the government’s vision for improved public service and pledged that similar steps will continue to be taken to enhance railway travel in Pakistan.