Eidul Fitr: Train fares slashed by 20 per cent

Federal Minister for Railways Hanif Abbasi has announced the launch of four special Eid trains starting from the 25th of Ramadan, with passengers receiving up to 20% fare relief during Eid days.

After assuming charge, Abbasi reaffirmed the government’s commitment to implementing the Prime Minister’s policies on railway privatisation.

He acknowledged infrastructure issues, including malfunctioning scanners at stations leading to smuggling and theft and pledged to strengthen the railway police along the lines of the Counter Terrorism Department (CTD).

Abbasi highlighted plans to double cargo services, enhance railway security under the IG Railways Police, and connect Thar Coal through cargo trains.

He also confirmed an order for 245 new coaches from China.

Regarding the ML-1 project, he stated that discussions are ongoing with multiple countries, but final decisions are yet to be made.

Addressing economic improvements, Abbasi claimed Pakistan’s foreign reserves have risen to $16 billion from $4 billion, inflation has dropped from 38% to 1.5%, and the interest rate has declined from 22% to 12%, with expectations of reaching single digits within six months. He also set a target to increase remittances from $18 billion to $35 billion.