In anticipation of the upcoming Eid-ul-Adha holidays, Pakistan Railways has announced the operation of five special trains to accommodate the increased number of travelers across the country. The initiative was launched on the instructions of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and formally announced by Federal Minister for Railways, Hanif Abbasi.
The special train service aims to provide timely, affordable, and convenient travel options for citizens heading home to celebrate Eid with their families. According to a spokesperson for Pakistan Railways, the move is designed to reduce the travel burden during the busy holiday season and ensure better access for passengers across different regions.
Eid Special Train Schedule
The first special Eid train is scheduled to depart from Karachi for Lahore on June 2 at 1:00 PM. This route will cater to a high volume of travelers commuting from the southern part of the country to Punjab.
The second train will depart from Quetta for Peshawar on June 3 at 10:00 AM, providing a long-distance travel solution for passengers journeying from Balochistan to Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
On June 3, the third special train will operate from Lahore to Karachi, offering a return option for those traveling south. Later the same day, a night train will depart from Karachi to Rawalpindi, offering overnight travel for those heading to northern Punjab and surrounding areas.
The fifth and final special train will leave from Karachi to Lahore on June 4 at 8:00 PM, reinforcing the popular Karachi–Lahore corridor and helping meet the high demand for travel between the two cities.
Purpose and Benefits of the Special Trains
The Ministry of Railways emphasized that the special trains are part of the government’s commitment to serve the public, especially during major festivals when travel demand surges. By adding these trains, Pakistan Railways hopes to minimize congestion on regular routes and reduce the pressure on alternative transport systems such as buses and private vehicles.
Passengers are expected to benefit from improved comfort, punctual service, and streamlined ticketing. Booking offices and online portals are fully operational to handle advance reservations, and citizens are encouraged to book their seats early to avoid last-minute complications.
Government’s Commitment to Public Service
Federal Minister Hanif Abbasi stated that this initiative reflects the government’s broader strategy of putting the needs of the people first. He also mentioned that Pakistan Railways is exploring the possibility of adding more coaches to existing trains or launching additional special trains if the current services become fully booked.
The spokesperson also confirmed that cleanliness, safety, and punctuality will be given top priority on all Eid special trains. Extra security arrangements will be made to ensure a smooth travel experience for passengers.
Public Response and Future Outlook
The announcement has been well-received by the public, especially among frequent travelers and working-class citizens who rely heavily on train travel during holiday periods. By offering multiple departure dates and routes, Pakistan Railways is aiming to provide greater flexibility and ease for passengers traveling across provinces.
This initiative not only marks a logistical achievement for Pakistan Railways but also serves as a testament to the government’s focus on enhancing national connectivity during times that matter most. With Eid-ul-Adha fast approaching, these special trains are expected to bring families together and help people celebrate the festival in peace and comfort.
