Web Desk: Pakistan Railways will relaunch the upgraded “Awam Express” on May 24 ahead of Eid al-Adha, Railways Minister Hanif Abbasi said, as the government seeks to improve passenger services and ease pressure on the country’s congested road network.
The move comes as millions of Pakistanis prepare to travel to their hometowns during the holiday season, traditionally one of the busiest periods for the country’s transport sector.
The revamped train would offer faster travel times, upgraded interiors and improved onboard services as part of broader efforts to restore public confidence in the state-run railway system.
Abbasi said Pakistan Railways had fully upgraded the Awam Express with redesigned interiors and more comfortable seating for passengers.
In addition, the train has been rescheduled to reduce travel time, particularly on the Karachi route, one of the country’s busiest rail corridors.
Officials also promised improved food, cleanliness and onboard management during the journey, areas that have long drawn criticism from travelers.
“The government’s priority is to provide safe and quality travel facilities to the public,” Abbasi told reporters.
Furthermore, he said Pakistan Railways was planning to introduce one “Prime Train” from every major city in an attempt to encourage rail travel and reduce traffic pressure on highways.
Pakistan Railways has struggled for years with financial losses, aging coaches and deteriorating railway tracks, resulting in frequent delays and declining passenger confidence.
Once considered one of the railway network’s flagship services, the Awam Express gradually lost popularity because of operational problems and declining standards.
However, railway authorities in recent months have launched an upgrade campaign using internal resources and cooperation with the private sector to renovate older trains and improve revenue generation.
The relaunch of Awam Express marks one of the most visible steps in that broader modernization effort.
Despite the renewed focus on passenger services, Pakistan Railways still faces major operational challenges.
Passenger traffic during Eid holidays often surges by as much as 200%, placing enormous pressure on booking systems and train operations.
As a result, the May 24 launch is expected to test the government’s ability to prevent ticket black marketing, overcrowding and service disruptions.
Train delays also remain one of the railway system’s biggest problems. The success of the upgraded Awam Express will largely depend on whether authorities can maintain faster schedules and service quality beyond the initial launch phase.
While newly launched trains in Pakistan often begin operations in strong condition, maintaining cleanliness, punctuality and passenger standards over time has historically proven more difficult for the cash-strapped railway network.
