Train operations remain suspended

Train services remained suspended on the third day as the proscribed Tehreek-i-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP) persist in agitation with thousands of activists resuming their march towards Islamabad.

The railways’ administration has suspended the operation of over twelve trains running between Lahore and Rawalpindi while rerouting several others. Due to the continued suspension of the train operations, millions of rupees have been refunded to passengers, who had booked tickets on different trains.

On Thursday, Pakistan Railways (PR) had cancelled many passenger trains and rerouted the others due to violent protests in Punjab. Trains to and from Rawalpindi and Peshawar were rerouted via Sargodha, Sheikhupura, Basal, Kandian, Sangla Hill and Lahore.

Moreover, Punjab’s home department has deployed the paramilitary rangers in eight districts of the province.

Read Four policemen martyred as TLP resumes march on Islamabad

Many passengers, who had to book their tickets weeks ago, were seen lamenting that the disruption in train operations had exacerbated their problems despite a long wait.

However, reacting to complaints, Chief Executive Officer Railways Nisar Ahmed Memon has assured that the decision was taken in light of security concerns as protests launched by the outlawed group have gone berserk.

“This is to ensure the safety of the passengers so that they do not face any trouble or difficulty during the journey,” he said.