Train travel nostalgia keeps railway chugging

Delays, derailments, lack of facilities fail to diminish charm

LAHORE:

Trains in Pakistan continue to struggle with delays, accidents, and a lack of modern facilities. Daily train departures and arrivals are often delayed by several hours, and derailments are not uncommon. Despite these challenges, Pakistan Railways remains a popular mode of transport for thousands, if not millions, of travellers each year.

Many passengers, including commuters like Tabish Imran Azmi and Rehan, express that despite the delays and lack of luxury, train travel still holds a nostalgic appeal and unique sense of enjoyment.

According to data obtained by The Express Tribune, passenger numbers on Pakistan Railways fluctuate significantly but remain substantial. Over the past five years, Pakistan Railways has covered more than 114.8 million kilometers, transporting 204.2 million passengers. Even amidst issues such as floods and terrorism in regions like Balochistan, a significant number of travelers continue to choose the railways.

The statistics reflect that in 2018-19, 63.87 million passengers traveled by train, with numbers dropping in the following years due to natural disasters and other challenges. In 2019, 44.3 million passengers traveled, with numbers decreasing to 28.2 million in 2020 due to the pandemic and natural calamities. The trend began to pick up again in 2021 and 2022, with 35.6 million and 35.4 million passengers, respectively, using rail transport.

One notable achievement of Pakistan Railways has been the recovery of passengers' lost goods, with over Rs80 million worth of valuables, including jewellery and currency, returned to their rightful owners over the past five years. Pakistan Railways CEO Aamir Ali Baloch acknowledged challenges but was optimistic about future improvements.

He mentioned that outsourcing some trains and the upcoming ML-1 project will be pivotal in transforming the service, modernising facilities, and enhancing passenger experience. However, he emphasised that budget constraints—much of which is consumed by pensions—pose significant limitations.

In recent developments, the railways have introduced online booking options, including e-tickets, and have enhanced their dining services. Thousands of passengers now enjoy high-quality meals at reasonable prices while on board.

Additionally, railway stations across the country are undergoing upgrades to further improve the overall travel experience.