Weeks after sweeping reforms, Pakistan Railways plan to shut down major trains

LAHORE: Pakistan Railways is considering the closure of two major trains due to a shortage of coaches. The Shah Hussain Express, which operates between Lahore and Karachi with 34 coaches, and the Khushhal Khan Khattak Express, which typically uses 50 coaches, are both under review for potential discontinuation.

Sources indicate that the shortage of about 100 coaches, coupled with low passenger numbers, has led to the proposal. The lack of resources is affecting other train services as well.

Also read: Pakistan Railways to launch upgraded business train

Meetings are ongoing at the railway headquarters to determine whether the two trains will be fully discontinued, though no final decision has been made. If halted, this move could disrupt railway operations and limit travel options for passengers.

STRICTER SAFETY PROTOCOLS

Pakistan Railways has strengthened safety protocols for all passenger and freight trains following recent accidents. A circular from the Chief Operating Superintendent mandates that no train be allowed to operate unless its braking system has been thoroughly checked and cleared by technical teams. Trains that fail to meet these standards will be taken out of service immediately.

GOVERNMENT ANNOUNCES RAILWAYS REFORMS

The move to shut down two trains come weeks after sweeping reforms were announced. Pakistan Railways had announced plans to upgrade the Lahore-Rawalpindi track, which will reduce travel time between the cities to two hours, and is also finalising an agreement for the Rohri-Karachi section. A Rs 50 billion investment has been allocated for these improvements.

Minister for Railways Hanif Abbasi said that some services will be outsourced, including cleaning services at major stations, improvements in food quality, and the introduction of free Wi-Fi at Lahore Railway Station.

Also read: Punjab plans Rs350bn investment to upgrade railway tracks

Abbasi also discussed infrastructure enhancements such as the installation of escalators and information desks, and the completion of a 105-kilometer track for coal transport, set to reduce electricity costs. In addition, the government is also focused on digitising the railway system, linking 16 banks to the railway app, and installing ATMs at 348 stations. Three railway companies have been shut down to improve efficiency, and employees on long leave are being called back to work.