Islamabad, June 7, 2025: Minister for Railways Hanif Abbasi unveiled a major improvement for commuters travelling between Rawalpindi and Lahore via train. He stated that the train speed on this route will be enhanced to 160 kilometres per hour, reducing the journey time to just two hours.
While addressing journalists at the Ministry of Railways, Abbasi said this development is part of a wider initiative aimed at upgrading the rail infrastructure and improving the overall passenger experience.
He also outlined several future undertakings, including the introduction of an international cargo train that will operate from Lahore to the Iranian border, with plans to extend the route further to Russia.
Abbasi mentioned that efforts are underway to build rail links with Kazakhstan to bolster trade relations with Central Asian countries. On the financial front, he noted that Pakistan Railways had achieved a historic milestone by generating Rs. 83 billion in revenue over the first 11 months of the current fiscal year.
READ MORE: Lahore-Rawalpindi Bullet Train Project Gains Momentum
He also shared that 1,413 new cargo wagons are in production, with 500 specifically meant for goods transport. Additional plans include a new train service between Lahore and Narowal starting June 15, a 20% reduction in ticket prices for Eid holidays, and the launch of five special Eid trains.
READ MORE: PIA issues Important Travel Advisory
Furthermore, Abbasi informed that the international tender process for Royal Palm Express has been finalized. He added that the ministry is working on transferring the management of eight hospitals and 14 schools to external operators to improve health and education services for railway staff and their families.
