Hike in privatised train fares not yet withdrawn

Private company has increased 70% fares of passenger trains, 1,300% of freight trains

ISLAMABAD:

The illegal hike in the fares of privatised passenger trains and freight trains by a private company could not be withdrawn despite the orders of Federal Minister for Railways Sheikh Rashid.

The private cargo and freight company in Lahore, S Jamil and Company, illegally increased 70 per cent fares of passenger trains and 1,300 per cent of freight trains, cancelling half tickets for children and the elderly.

According to a report, the fare of Mehar Express was increased route-wise from Rs350 to Rs480; the train’s fare from Rawalpindi to Kallur Kot was increased from Rs350 to Rs550 while children's fare was increased from Rs175 to Rs270.

The company was also charging high rates for a regular ticket price of Rs100.

Likewise, the fares of Attock Express, Jund Express, Faiz Ahmed Faiz and Lathani Express were also increased.

It was also revealed that passengers were being charged extra amount of Rs200 to Rs300, if they had a live rooster or pigeon during the journey.

Following media reports of hike in fares and the confirmation of the increase, Rashid announced on October 10 at the Lahore headquarters that the government would withdraw permission to run trains by the private company within 24 hours, if the fares were increased again.

Meanwhile, a three-member committee was formed to decide the amount of fine on the company.

On Nov 26, it was revealed again that the company didn’t reduce the fares and was still charging the increased fares for passenger and freight trains.

In a meeting held at the Lahore headquarters on Nov 28, Rashid again took notice of the matter and decided to impose fine on the private company and display fare lists on Railway stations.

Following more than a week of the directives of the federal minister, so far no fare lists were on display at the Railway stations neither the fine was imposed on the company.

Pakistan Railways’ spokesperson didn’t give his stance when The Express Tribune contacted him.

The private company continued to harass public for extra fare while its unfair behaviour has become a norm.

The disappointed travellers appealed Prime Minister Imran Khan to take notice of hike in fares of passenger trains and take stern action against the private company.