In a significant development, Pakistan Railways has made an important announcement regarding its fares against the backdrop of soaring petroleum prices in the country. The railway authority issued a notification on Monday, stating that ticket prices for both passenger and goods trains will see a five percent increase. This adjustment is in response to the recent surge in petroleum prices, and the revised fares are slated to go into effect from September 19.
This decision comes in the wake of the interim government’s recent decision to raise the prices of petroleum products by a substantial margin. Last week, the government implemented a significant hike, with petrol prices surging by an astonishing Rs 26.02 per litre, while high-speed diesel (HSD) experienced an increase of Rs 17.34 per litre, as announced by the Finance Division in a late Thursday statement.
As a result, the current price of petrol now stands at Rs 331.38 per litre, with high-speed diesel not far behind at Rs 329.18 per litre. This abrupt increase in fuel prices has ignited public frustration, further exacerbated by the existing challenges of inflated electricity bills and the rising cost of basic commodities.
The decision by Pakistan Railways to adjust its fares is a response to the prevailing economic circumstances driven by the surge in petroleum prices. This move aims to ensure the sustainability of railway operations while acknowledging the economic challenges faced by the public. Starting from September 19, passengers and freight customers will experience a five percent increase in ticket prices, reflecting the evolving economic landscape in Pakistan.
