LAHORE: Pakistan Railways (PR) has launched the upgraded Subak Raftar railcar service on the Lahore-Rawalpindi-Lahore route and announced plans to start a modern version of the Shalimar Express on the Lahore-Karachi-Lahore (via Faisalabad) route within this week.
Railways Chief Executive Officer Amir Ali Baloch inaugurated the upgraded railcar at the Lahore Railway Station and flagged off the train for Rawalpindi, accompanied by senior officers.
Speaking on the occasion, the CEO said Pakistan Railways was working to improve its passenger services with modern facilities both at stations and during travel. “Our focus is on passenger comfort. The upgraded trains are part of our commitment to provide better services,” he added.
Mr. Baloch said the upgraded Shalimar Express would begin operations within the week, while the upgraded Subak Raftar railcar will operate four trips daily between Lahore and Rawalpindi. He said three modern train sets were already in service, and the fourth would join in the next few days.
Each upgraded train is powered by GEU-20 American locomotives and equipped with modern facilities, including hygienic food from a reputed food chain, mobile charging ports, clean toilets, dining areas, security, and trolley service.
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According to the CEO, each upgraded rake includes nine passenger coaches—four economy class and five AC coaches (standard, business, and parlor car). “No road transport can offer such comfort at the fares we provide,” he claimed.
He added that the Karachi station’s upgraded section would also be inaugurated along with the Shalimar Express, most likely by the prime minister. “We had to wait for the completion of the flood-affected Faisalabad-Khanewal track. Now it’s ready, allowing us to resume operations,” he said.
Mr. Baloch also mentioned that PR plans to upgrade several other express trains soon. “Once the plan is finalized, we will launch upgraded services one by one,” he stated.
NLC Worker Dies at Lahore Loco-Shed
An employee of the National Logistic Cell (NLC), Saeed, died after being hit by a shunting locomotive at the Lahore loco-shed.
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PR Division Superintendent Inamullah visited the site and confirmed that the deceased had retired from PR and was currently serving as a diesel fitter at NLC. He directed officials to provide necessary assistance to the deceased’s family.
Over 2,000 Encroachments Removed in Lahore
The city administration and Metropolitan Corporation Lahore (MCL) claimed to have removed 2,123 encroachments and seized large quantities of material during the last 72 hours.
According to a spokesperson, field teams also removed 9,494 illegal banners and demolished two illegal shops and 10 stalls in Shah Alam Market to maintain a clean environment.
Syed Musa Raza, who visited several areas, directed assistant commissioners to intensify anti-encroachment operations and ensure the restoration of public spaces and smooth traffic flow.
