For distressed children, railway stations become a refuge
Railway stations across Pakistan are increasingly becoming refuge points for children fleeing troubled homes, as poverty, domestic tensions, corporal punishment, and the influence of social media push minors onto the streets.
According to official data shared by Pakistan Railways Police, 658 children, including 413 boys and 245 girls, were recovered from various railway stations during 2025 after running away from home.
Following verification and legal formalities, all the children were handed back to their families or guardians.
The rescued children included girls aged 15 to 18 years and boys between 14 and 17 years, with the majority falling in the 12 to 15-year age bracket.
Railway police teams traced and recovered the children from major railway stations in Lahore, Karachi, Hyderabad, Sukkur, Multan, Faisalabad, Peshawar, Quetta and several other cities.
Initial questioning revealed a complex mix of social and economic reasons behind the growing trend.
Police officials said many children cited unemployment at home, food shortages, parental scolding, domestic violence, and forced labour as key factors behind their decision to flee.
In numerous cases, children reported being sent to work as domestic helpers or labourers instead of attending school.
"Worsening economic conditions have pushed families to desperate measures," said a senior railway police officer who requested anonymity.
Another major factor identified was the psychological impact of social comparison and modern lifestyle pressures. Children told investigators they felt embarrassed when they could not afford items commonly used by classmates, such as branded shoes, attractive school bags, smartphones, or lunch items like pizza, burgers and noodles.
Some children said they faced violence both at school and at home, leaving them feeling trapped.
Some reported fleeing due to family pressure over marriage choices, while others admitted being influenced by online friendships or relationships formed through social media. Railway police operate help desks at major stations, where recovered children are provided temporary care while their families are traced.
Speaking to The Express Tribune Child Psychologist Fatima Tahir pointed out that children running away from home should be seen as a sign of emotional distress rather than misbehaviour.
"Most of these children fall between the ages of 12 and 18, a stage where emotions are strong and the ability to think through consequences is still developing," she remarked.
"At this age, children react to pain and pressure more than logic. When they repeatedly face scolding, physical punishment, or humiliation at home, in schools, or in madrasas, they begin to feel unsafe and unheard. Over time, this builds fear, frustration, and a sense of helplessness, making escape seem like the only option."
Fatima said for adolescent girls, the pressure is often greater due to fear of forced marriages or emotional involvement through online relationships, which can push them toward risky decisions.
"Reaching public spaces like railway stations shows the level of desperation these children experience. Simply returning them to their families without emotional support or guidance does not address the real issue and often leads to repeated runaway attempts," she said.
"What these children need most is safety, understanding, and someone willing to listen. When children feel emotionally secure and respected, they do not choose to run away; they choose to stay," Fatima stressed.