Pakistan railways unveils new 20-coach rake of Karakoram Express

Pakistan Railways Chief Executive Officer Muhammad Hafeezullah on Friday inaugurated a new 20-coach rake of the Karakoram Express at Lahore

LAHORE: Pakistan Railways Chief Executive Officer Muhammad Hafeezullah on Friday inaugurated a new 20-coach rake of the Karakoram Express at Lahore Railway Station, featuring modern passenger facilities and upgraded travel services.

The new rake will be operated under a private-sector arrangement and will offer four classes of accommodation, including AC Sleeper, AC Business, AC Standard and Economy Class.

The Karakoram Express will depart daily from both Lahore and Karachi at 3:00pm. The train will stop at Raiwind, Sahiwal, Khanewal, Bahawalpur, Rohri, Nawabshah, Hyderabad, Landhi and Drigh Road stations, completing its journey between Lahore and Karachi in approximately 19 hours.

Passengers will be provided with a range of onboard facilities, including mineral water, freshly prepared meals, bedding, mobile charging points, Wi-Fi and an infotainment system. Special complimentary services will also be available for passengers travelling in AC Sleeper and AC Business classes.

Pakistan Railways said the initiative aims to improve passenger comfort, enhance service delivery and encourage greater private-sector participation in railway operations.

Speaking at the inauguration ceremony, CEO Muhammad Hafeezullah said Pakistan Railways would continue upgrading its trains in line with the vision of the Federal Minister for Railways. He said efforts were also underway to improve railway tracks.

He further announced that the upgradation of Main Line-1 (ML-1) was expected to commence in February next year.