Pakistan Railways raises fares, ride-hailing services hike rates after fuel price surge

Pakistan Railways has increased passenger train fares following the recent rise in petroleum prices, with economy class tickets raised by 5% and air-conditioned class fares by 10%.

According to a statement issued by the Pakistan Railways spokesperson, freight train charges have also been increased by 20%. The increase will not apply to tickets that had already been booked before March 9. 

Officials said the department will continue to absorb part of the additional operational costs for passenger train services despite the rise in fuel prices.

The fare revision follows the federal government’s decision to raise the prices of petrol and high-speed diesel by Rs55 per litre amid supply disruptions linked to the conflict involving the US, Israel and Iran.

After the adjustment, the ex-depot price of high-speed diesel increased to Rs335.86 per litre from Rs280.86, while petrol prices rose to Rs321.17 per litre from Rs266.17 per litre.

Pakistan depends significantly on oil shipments passing through the Strait of Hormuz, and officials linked the price adjustment to disruptions in fuel supply routes.

In Karachi, ride-hailing motorcycle operators have also increased fares by 5% to 10% following the fuel price hike. Motorcycle riders associated with online transport platforms said higher fuel costs had forced them to adjust fares.