Pakistan Railways has announced an increase in train fares across passenger and freight services, effective from March 9, following a 20% surge in diesel prices. Passengers who have already booked tickets in advance will not be charged extra, officials clarified. The move comes amid rising global oil prices and domestic fuel hikes.
Spokesperson Babar Ali confirmed that Economy Class fares will rise by 5%, while air-conditioned categories will see a 10% increase. Freight services for goods trains will face a steeper 20% hike due to higher operational costs. Pakistan Railways will absorb part of the fuel cost increase for passenger trains to reduce the burden on commuters.
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The decision was described as “inevitable” because of rising fuel expenditures, which have significantly impacted the railway’s operating budget. Ali said the adjustments are necessary to maintain service quality while coping with the financial strain caused by soaring diesel prices.
The fare hike follows a government announcement of a Rs55 per litre increase in petrol and diesel prices, bringing petrol to Rs321.17 per litre and diesel to Rs335.86 per litre. Petroleum Minister Ali Pervaiz Malik, Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar, and Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb confirmed the new rates, citing rising global fuel costs as a key factor.
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During the press briefing, Dar highlighted the impact of the Iran-US-Israel conflict on international petroleum markets, noting that the war has caused a surge in global oil prices. Many countries are now passing higher fuel costs directly to domestic markets, leading to sharp increases in petrol, diesel, and related transport expenses.