Pakistan Railways slashes ticket price for people with disabilities

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Pakistan Railways has introduced a 50% concession in rail fares for people with disabilities (PWDs) travelling in all express and passenger trains, excluding the Green Line.

The discount is available upon presentation of a Computerised National Identity Card (CNIC) with the disability logo, an official from the Ministry of Railways confirmed, APP reported. The discount also extends to the attendants accompanying visually impaired passengers.

Additionally, the Railways has made several provisions to assist PWDs at major stations. Wheelchairs are available at all major stations, and special reservation and booking counters have been designated for them at reservation offices.

Free access to executive washrooms and restrooms is being provided at select major stations, with 12 stations set to have dedicated executive washrooms for PWDs in the near future. The official added that these facilities aim to enhance the comfort and accessibility of railway services for them.

Currently, Pakistan Railways operates 98 trains daily with 1,180 serviceable coaches. However, 72% of the department's passenger coaches have exceeded their useful life, which requires additional resources for maintenance.

Regarding train services, the official explained that Khushal Khan Khattak Express was discontinued in March 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic and subsequent suspension of operations.

The restoration of the Khushal Khan Khattak Express will be considered once sufficient coaches become available and the commercial feasibility of the route is evaluated.

Two daily trains, 2 Up and 2 Down, continue to run between Peshawar and Karachi. Additionally, the Bolan Mail and Monjodaro Express operate on the Larkana section to cater to local transportation needs.