Train fares to be reduced by 10%

All railway booking offices to reopen

ISLAMABAD: Railways Minister Sheikh Rashid on Saturday announced that reservation offices that were earlier closed as part of the measures to curb the spread of coronavirus were being opened across the country.

“The decision has been made because many passengers are unable to use the booking online system,” he said while addressing a news conference at the Pakistan Railways headquarters.

To a question, the minister said that the train fares were earlier reduced by 10% and the Railways would further decrease them by 10% because of the cut in fuel prices.

The minister said Covid-19 standard operating procedures (SOPs) were strictly being followed in trains and at railway stations.

“All divisional superintendents have been told that the implementation of SOPs was their responsibility,” he added.

“They have also been instructed to ensure maximum collection of revenue.”

Rashid further said the department was reviewing the train schedule to facilitate more citizens across the country.

“The trains which are currently operational have been allowed to make a stopover at 13 more railway stations where the number of passengers is much more.”

The minister announced that an additional passenger coach would be attached with each of the 40 trains operating right now.

“No train will be allowed to run with less than 17 coaches. This is being done to facilitate more passengers as the occupancy of seats will remain at 60%.”

Rashid said it was earlier decided to restore 10 more trains but after observing the Covid-19 situation in the country, the decision was postponed for a month.

Talking about the politics, the minister said the opposition had failed to play its role.

“The leadership of the opposition is struggling to protect itself from corruption cases in courts.”

He reiterated that Prime Minister Imran Khan was committed towards not sparing anyone who had looted the national exchequer.

“Hopefully, the forensic report of the flour scam would be presented to the cabinet.”

To a question, he said the government would follow the verdict of the Supreme Court on the Pakistan Steel Mills (PSM). “No decision has been made yet to sack PSM employees.

To another query, he said that India should avoid resorting to any misadventure. “Otherwise, there would be no option for Pakistan but give a befitting response, which would be the last war.”

(With input from APP)