Railway implements third fare hike

PR announces 5% fare increase, attributing the rise to escalating fuel costs

LAHORE:

In another setback for commuters, Pakistan Railways has announced a 5% increase in train fares, marking the third hike in just two months.

These new prices, which take effect from today, September 19, are a direct response to the relentless surge in petrol prices, which have reached record-breaking double-digit figures compared to the single-digit increases observed in the past. Over the past year alone, the price of petroleum products has skyrocketed by Rs95 per litre.

This recent fare increment affects both parcel and mail express trains. The Pakistan Railways administration emphasizes that due to the unprecedented spike in fuel prices, adjusting the fares has become an unfortunate necessity.

Adding to the strain, the caretaker government, which has been in power for only a month, has witnessed both petrol and diesel prices reaching an all-time high, with costs now standing at Rs331 and Rs329 per litre, respectively.

These increasing transport fares are poised to further burden an already struggling public, who are grappling with the growing challenge of making ends meet.