Coronavirus
Pakistan Railways to suspend multiple trains in the country
Statesman Report
ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan Railways on Thursday decided to suspend the operation of 12 trains to limit the spread of the coronavirus. This will be implemented from March 22.
Federal Minister for Railways Sheikh Rashid Ahmed said that for now, 12 trains are being stopped but if the need arises, that number could rise to 20 trains from April 1. Passengers who have booked tickets in advance will have the options of getting a full refund or taking an alternate train, he added.
The trains that have been suspended include Khushal Khan Khattak express, Akbar express, Sindh express, Shah Latif express, Rohi passenger train among others.
Earlier, Sheikh Rashid Ahmed said the operations of eight trains will be discontinued from March 25 and the decision has been taken on the Sindh government’s request.
It is pertinent here to mention that officials had earlier recommended the Ministry of Railways to halt or limit train operation as the administration was facing difficulties in taking the precautionary measures.
The Railway Minister also met with Prime Minister Imran Khan and briefed him about the precautionary measures taken by railway stations across the country against the virus.