Islamabad: In a bid to promote accessibility and inclusivity, Pakistan Railways has announced a 50% discount on fares for persons with disabilities traveling on all express and passenger trains, except the Green Line.
A Railway Ministry official confirmed that the concession is available on presentation of the CNIC card containing the disability logo. The discount also applies to companions accompanying visually impaired passengers.
To further support persons with disabilities, Pakistan Railways has implemented several measures at major stations. These services include wheelchair availability, dedicated reservation counters, and complimentary access to executive bathrooms and restrooms. Plans are being made to establish executive restrooms designated for persons with disabilities at 12 major stations.
Despite these improvements, Pakistan Railways faces challenges with its aging fleet. Of the 1,180 serviceable coaches running 98 trains daily, 72% are beyond their service life, necessitating increased maintenance resources.
In operational updates, the Khushal Khan Khattak Express, which was suspended in March 2020 due to the pandemic, remains out of service. Its restoration will depend on the availability of resources and an assessment of the commercial viability of the road.
Meanwhile, two daily trains, 2 Up and 2 Down, continue to operate between Peshawar and Karachi, while the Bolan Mail and Monjodaro Express serve passengers on the Larkana section.