LAHORE: The model Karakoram Express, fitted with modern travel amenities, has begun operations under the private sector.
Pakistan Railways Chief Executive Officer Muhammad Hafeezullah, accompanied by directors of M/s Prime Rail, inaugurated the train at Lahore Railway Station and flagged it off for Karachi with passengers on board.
Private firm M/s Prime Rail has announced a 25 per cent discount on fares for all classes until November 6. The train comprises 20 coaches including AC Sleeper, AC Business, AC Standard and Economy. Passengers will receive mineral water, fresh meals, bedding, mobile charging points, Wi-Fi and an infotainment system. Complimentary service is available in AC Sleeper and AC Business classes.
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The Karakoram Express departs simultaneously from Lahore and Karachi at 3pm. It stops at Raiwind, Sahiwal, Khanewal, Bahawalpur, Rohri, Nawabshah, Hyderabad, Landhi and Drigh Road, covering the distance between the two cities in 19 hours.
Discounted fares until November 6 are Rs12,600 for AC Sleeper, Rs9,550 for AC Business, Rs7,550 for AC Standard and Rs4,150 for Economy. AC Sleeper and AC Business passengers will also receive complementary onboard service at these rates.
Pakistan Railways has outsourced the commercial management of the Karakoram Express to M/s Prime Rail for an annual amount of Rs3.9015 billion.
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