LAHORE: Pakistan Railways will launch a new modern business train this week to provide passengers with a more comfortable and upgraded travel experience on the busy Lahore-Karachi route.
The train will have 28 coaches fitted with digital features, free Wi-Fi, and a high-standard dining car. Officials say this service will offer facilities that meet international standards, making it a major improvement compared to older trains.
This step is part of Pakistan Railways’ plan to improve long-distance travel and bring in more passengers by providing better facilities. The Lahore-Karachi route is one of the busiest in the country, connecting two big cities with a large number of travelers.
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Earlier, Pakistan Railways began outsourcing 11 trains under a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model. These trains will now be operated by private partners to improve service quality.
Railway officials say the PPP model will help improve train services. But some civil society groups are worried. They say this change might increase ticket prices, which could make it hard for poor people to afford train travel.
Despite these worries, trains remain one of the most popular and low-cost transport options for poor and middle-income people in Pakistan. Around 100,000 passengers travel by train daily, especially on key routes connecting Karachi to cities in Punjab.
