Train operations halted between Lahore, Rawalpindi, Peshawar amid PTI protest

Additionally, all 25 train bookings have been canceled and passengers will receive immediate ticket refunds

RAWALPINDI:

Pakistan Railways has suspended all train services between Lahore, Rawalpindi, and Peshawar in light of the ongoing PTI protest.

According to railway authorities, services between Peshawar and Rawalpindi, Lahore and Rawalpindi, as well as between Multan and Faisalabad to Rawalpindi, have been halted immediately.

Additionally, all 25 train bookings for Sunday, November 24, have been canceled, and passengers will receive immediate refunds for their tickets.

A heavy police presence has been deployed at railway stations, and access to these stations has been completely restricted.

The stations have been sealed, and passengers are advised to collect their refunds from temporary booking counters set up for the purpose.

The suspension of services and the cancellation of bookings have impacted daily commuters and travelers, as Pakistan Railways responds to the security situation surrounding the ongoing protests.

Despite widespread crackdowns, road closures, and arrests, PTI remained steadfast on November 23, vowing to overcome all obstacles and reach Islamabad for their planned rally on Sunday (today).

The decision was made during a high-level meeting held at the Chief Minister's House in Peshawar.

The meeting, chaired by party Chairman Barrister Gohar, was attended by prominent figures, including Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur, former president Arif Alvi, Shibli Faraz, Information Secretary Sheikh Waqas Akram, and other senior leaders.

The key discussions focused on preparations for Sunday's protest with the final decision to march toward the federal capital being officially endorsed.

Due to the motorway closure, participants deliberated on sending convoys via the GT Road. They also discussed plans to remove obstacles and reopen the motorway.