Pakistan Railways announces 10-15% hike in fares

The hike, which will be effective from February 1, is expected to yield a profit of Rs2 billion for Pakistan Railways.

Pakistan Railways on Monday decided to raise its fares by 10-15 per cent, which will be effective from February 1, 2011, in an effort to make a profit of Rs2 billion.

Tariffs will also be increased by 20 per cent for Goods Loading trains.

General Manager Railways Muhammad Ashfaq Khattak told Express 24/7 that the department increased its fares for the first time since December 2008. He said the Cabinet has also authorised the department to increase fares in accordance with market rates.

Khattak said 98 per cent of the people travel in economy class and the increase in the tariffs has been made keeping in view the affordability of the common man.

However, soon after the announcement of the revision in fares, the Organisation for the Safety of Human Rights carried out a protest against the move.