Pakistan to partially restore passenger train services

PM Imran Khan will give final approval on April 25

ISLAMABAD: The railways ministry has finalised a strategy for partially resuming train operations across all four provinces upon the end of a lockdown or any relaxation, sources said.

According to the strategy, “Train operations will partially resume in all four provinces and 24 trains will start functioning for up and down operations after approval from the prime minister before 25.”

The train staff and passengers must adhere to safety guidelines during the special train operation while strict action would be taken as per railway rules in case of violations.

Sources added that reservation offices may remain closed even after the end of lockdown while the passengers would be able to buy tickets only through online booking. The booking for a train would be stopped after the reservation of 60 per cent of seats, as part of its measures to ensure social distancing.

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Moreover, the booking for special trains would also be suspended within 24 hours of the train’s departure, it says adding that the passengers would be required to reach the railway station an hour before the departure.

“No irrelevant person will be allowed to enter the railway station and those coming to see off must remain at least 200 metres away from the station.” The passengers are advised to carry their own masks, sanitisers and soaps.