In this blog post, we will explain What is Pakistan Railway. Pakistan Railways is an essential component of the nation’s transportation network. It was first established during the British colonial era and has since expanded into a vast network that links Pakistan’s major cities, towns, and rural areas. With more than 7,000 kilometers of track, Pakistan Railways is an essential passenger and freight transportation system that boosts the economy and connects rural areas to major cities.
Pakistan Railway
Pakistan Railways, a division of the Ministry of Railways, works to modernize and increase efficiency while balancing accessibility and affordability for the broader public. The government has recently launched several rail system revitalization initiatives in collaboration with nations such as China, emphasizing improvements in speed, safety, and dependability.
Pakistan Railway Vision & Mission
Pakistan Railway’s mission is to transform the railways in Pakistan into a modern, efficient and sustainable transportation backbone that connects communities and businesses, enhances national integration, and fosters sustainable and inclusive economic growth. Pakistan Railways is committed to providing the opportunity through rail services, aimed to connect diverse communities and businesses for national integration and driving economic growth.
Pakistan Railway E-Ticketing
Historically obtaining train tickets for Pakistan Railways was a hard process, requiring long waits in line before travelers could pay and receive their tickets. However, this has changed significantly, as people no longer need to visit ticket counters. The introduction of an electronic ticketing system and online booking options by Pakistan Railways has made travel more convenient and efficient. There is no need to print tickets thanks to e-tickets. Tickets can be bought online via Easy Paisa or Jazz Cash, with a confirmation SMS required for ticket checkers. Passengers can book anytime through the Pakistan Railways website or app.
How to Book Pakistan Railway Ticket
To book a ticket online follow these steps:
- Log in to the website.
- Search for your desired train.
- Select your specific schedule and travel class.
- Select your seats.
- Click on the e-ticket button.
- Fill in your details (full name, mobile number, CNIC, and email).
- Submit the form to register.
- You will receive a verification code via SMS and email; enter this code to complete the process.
- Pay via Debit/Credit card, Mobile Account, or UBL Omni Shops.
After completing your payment, you will receive a confirmation SMS, which serves as your official ticket—please keep it safe. After registering, you can book your ticket and check train timings. If payment is not received within two hours, your ticket will be canceled. You can also use the Pakistan Railways mobile app for bookings.
Types of Trains
Pakistan Railways operates several types of trains to meet the diverse needs of passengers and cargo transport. These trains range from premium express services to economical passenger trains and specialized freight services. Some types of trains are as follows:
Express Trains
These trains are primarily for long-distance travel between major cities. Known for faster speeds and fewer stops, these trains offer a higher level of comfort and typically have air-conditioned and non-air-conditioned coaches. Examples of Express trains are Green Line Express, Karakoram Express and Pakistan Express.
Passenger Trains
These trains are designed to cater to shorter or intermediate distances, with multiple stops. These trains are slower with frequent stops, making them ideal for travel between smaller towns and cities. They include both mail (postal) services and regular passenger services. Examples include Tezgam Express and Awam Express.
Intercity Trains
These trains are for regional or inter-city travel within shorter distances. These trains Offer comfortable, economical seating options with moderate speeds, making daily commutes more accessible. Examples of Intercity trains include the Shalimar Express and Fared Express.
Special Trains
Special Trains are operated for special occasions, tourism, or pilgrimage. These are typically seasonal and may be scheduled for religious events or holidays. Sometimes, they are chartered by private parties. Examples include Hajj Special Trains and Tourist Trains.
Green Line Train
Pakistan Railways runs an express train between Karachi and Islamabad every day called the Green Line Train. It has the highest passage priority and is the organization’s flagship rail. The train travels along a section of the Karachi–Peshawar Railway Line, covering a reported distance of 1,521 kilometers (945 miles) in around 21 hours. On May 15, 2015, Mian Muhammad Nawaz Sharif inaugurated it at the Islamabad train station.
Route and Station Stops
The route of the Green Line Train is Karachi Cantonment–Islamabad via Karachi–Peshawar Railway Line Station stops include
- Karachi Cantonment
- Drigh Road
- Hyderabad Junction
- Rohri Junction
- Bahawalpur
- Khanewal Junction
- Lahore Junction
- Chaklala
- Rawalpindi
- Islamabad
Karakoram Express
Pakistan Railways runs the Karakoram Express, a passenger train, between Karachi and Lahore every day. The journey, which follows a section of the Khanewal–Wazirabad Branch Line, Shahdara Bagh–Sangla Hill Branch Line, and Karachi–Peshawar Railway Line, covers a reported distance of 1,241 kilometers (771 miles) in around 17 hours and 45 minutes. The well-known Karakoram Mountain range in northern Pakistan is the inspiration behind the train’s name. The Karakoram Express opened for business on August 14, 2002. During this time, Pakistan Railways underwent a number of “facelifts” under Pervez Musharraf’s rule, notably the Shalimar Express, Tezgam Express, and Karachi Express. The title of the “fastest train in Pakistan” was earned by Karakoram Express.
Routes & Station Stops
- Karachi Cantonment–Khanewal Junction via Karachi–Peshawar Railway Line
- Khanewal Junction–Sangla Hill Junction via Khanewal–Wazirabad Branch Line
- Sangla Hill Junction–Shahdara Bagh Junction via Shahdara Bagh–Sangla Hill Branch Line
- Shahdara Bagh Junction–Lahore Junction via Karachi–Peshawar Railway Line