LAHORE: Pakistan Railways has announced a 2% increase in passenger train fares, effective from July 18, following the hike in High-Speed Diesel (HSD) prices.
The adjustment in fares comes as a response to the rising cost of HSD, which directly impacts the operational expenses of Pakistan Railways.
According to a memorandum issued by the Ministry of Railways, the updated fares for passenger trains will be published on the official Pakistan Railways website.
In addition to the passenger fare hike, freight train rates have also been revised. The cost of transporting coal via freight trains has increased by 3%, while the rate for transporting rock phosphates and fertilisers will rise by 2%. These changes will be implemented from July 21.
The government’s decision to raise petroleum prices, including HSD, has led to an increase in Pakistan Railways’ operational costs. The price of HSD was raised by Rs11.37 per litre, bringing the cost to Rs284.35 for the second half of July. This increase has added approximately Rs4 million per day, or Rs119.5 million per month, to Pakistan Railways’ expenses, as the railway system consumes about 350,000 litres of HSD daily.
The overall hike in fuel prices is expected to further strain the financial situation of the public and transport sectors.
