Pakistan Railways has announced an increase in fares for both passenger and freight trains, effective from July 19, 2024. This fare hike follows the government’s decision to raise petroleum prices, which has significantly impacted the operational costs of the rail network.
Passenger train fares have been raised by 1%, affecting all classes including economy, AC standard, AC business, and AC parlor. This increase applies to mail, express, and intercity trains, as well as those operated under public-private partnerships. Freight train fares have been increased by 2%, marking a further adjustment following a previous 3% increase that took effect on July 3, 2024.
The recent rise in petroleum prices has been a key factor behind this fare adjustment. Petrol prices were increased by Rs. 9.99 per liter, setting the new price at Rs. 275.60 per liter. High-speed diesel prices rose by Rs. 6.18 per liter, reaching Rs. 283.63 per liter, and kerosene oil prices increased by Rs. 1.83 per liter. Despite previous reductions in petroleum prices, no corresponding fare relief was provided, making this recent hike a necessary step to offset rising operational costs and maintain service quality.
Divisional superintendents have been instructed to update fare tables accordingly to reflect these changes. The fare increase is part of broader financial strategies aimed at balancing revenue generation with operational sustainability. Pakistan Railways has reported record revenue generation for the financial year 2023-24, reaching Rs. 88 billion, a 40% growth over the previous year’s Rs. 63 billion. This exceeded the government’s target of Rs. 73 billion by an additional Rs. 15 billion, highlighting improved efficiency and growing service demand.
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