PM announces major relief for railway passengers, fares unchanged despite fuel price hike

LAHORE, Apr 03 (APP):The government has announced a significant relief for railway passengers

by deciding to absorb the financial impact of rising diesel prices instead of passing the burden on to the public.PR spokesperson said here on Friday, Pakistan Railways was facing increased operational costs due to the surge in fuel prices, making a 30 percent increase in train fares unavoidable. However, Prime Minister

Shehbaz Sharif intervened and directed the authorities not to increase fares for any class.Thus, fares for allcategories, including economy and air-conditioned classes, will remain unchanged. In addition, to support the business community, the government has also decided not to increase freight train charges.On the Prime Minister’s instructions, the government has taken on an additional financial burden of Rs 6 billion until June 30 to ensure relief for passengers and traders.

Federal Minister for Railways Muhammad Hanif Abbasi stated that the Prime Minister’s decision had won the hearts of people during challenging times. The step was a gift to the public and would keep rail travel affordable

and accessible for everyone, he added.