In a surprising and welcome move, Pakistan Railways has unveiled newly renovated and 'world-class' waiting lounges at Lahore Railway Station, offering a near business-class experience on a budget of just Rs300.
The revamp includes two separate lounges, including a free family lounge and a Commercially Important Person (CIP) lounge, where travellers can relax in plush seating, sip tea, access free Wi-Fi and even catch up on work using computerised workstations, all for Rs300.
The upgraded CIP lounge left many first-time visitors stunned, some mistaking it for a private office or upscale hotel. "I thought I had walked into someone's personal suite," one of the passengers said. "When the staff said it is for train travellers and costs just Rs300, I was in disbelief."
The space features vibrant carpets, comfortable sofas and private cabins with reclining chairs. The refreshment area serves branded snacks and beverages at affordable rates, adding to the surprise for many passengers who expected higher costs.
The upgrade comes following Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif's inauguration of the facility two days ago, marking the first major overhaul of Lahore station in more than 125 years. It also includes the installation of electric escalators and a major boost in cleanliness, ambience and overall service quality.
Travellers like Adeel Zubair and Ikram, en route to Karachi, described the lounge as "unbelievable".
"We thought it must cost more than Rs1,000," they said. "To find out it's just Rs300, with AC and refreshments, was honestly shocking. We kept asking, 'Are you sure it's only Rs300?'"
The business-focused design has especially appealed to corporate travellers, who now have access to digital kiosks and workstations during their wait times.
Railway officials said the latest developments were the first step in an ambitious nationwide overhaul.
The broader plan includes the modernisation of key stations in Karachi, Multan, Rawalpindi and Faisalabad. As part of efforts to boost punctuality and enhance passenger experience, 11 trains have already been outsourced. However, they continue to operate under the ministry's supervision.
Serving over 40 million passengers annually, the railways ministry now aims to elevate station infrastructure to meet global standards.
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