Pakistan Railways to operate special trains for Eid al-Adha travel

Railway officials said the special Eid trains will include seven to eight coaches each to accommodate the large number of travellers expected before the festival. According to the announced schedule, the first special train will depart from Quetta to Karachi on May 23.

The second special train will leave Karachi for Rawalpindi on May 24 and will pass through Multan, Faisalabad, and Sargodha during its journey.

Officials said the third Eid special train will operate from Karachi to Lahore on May 25 to facilitate passengers travelling between the two major cities. Pakistan Railways said the initiative has been introduced to reduce travel difficulties during the Eid holidays and ease pressure on regular train services across the country.

However, reports noted that Peshawar has not been included in this year’s Eid special train operations, as no direct special train has been announced for the city from Karachi, Lahore, or Quetta.

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The absence of Peshawar from the special Eid schedule has raised concerns among passengers who were expecting additional travel facilities ahead of Eid al-Adha.

Railway authorities said efforts are being made to manage increased passenger traffic smoothly and provide better travel arrangements during the festive season. Passengers have been advised to book tickets early because heavy demand is expected as the Eid holidays approach and thousands of people prepare to travel to their hometowns.

Analysts say special Eid trains usually help reduce overcrowding on regular routes and provide relief to families travelling long distances during major holidays. They also believe the success of these services will depend on timely operations, proper management, and the availability of seats during peak travel days.