On Monday, March 16, 2026, Pakistan Railways unveiled plans to operate four special train services aimed at facilitating smoother and more comfortable travel for passengers heading home to celebrate Eid ul Fitr. These additional trains have been scheduled to accommodate the surge in travelers during the festive period, a time when millions across the country journey to reunite with their families. The railway authorities emphasized that these services are designed to alleviate the pressure on regular trains, which often experience overcrowding during peak seasons.
The introduction of these special trains reflects Pakistan Railways’ ongoing efforts to enhance passenger convenience and safety during one of the busiest travel times of the year. Historically, Eid holidays witness a significant spike in demand for transportation, prompting the railways to deploy extra resources to maintain service quality and manage the increased footfall effectively. Officials highlighted that these trains will connect key urban centers, ensuring that travelers from various regions can reach their destinations with greater ease and reliability.
The first of the special Eid trains is scheduled to depart from Lahore at 7:30 pm on March 16. This service will travel overnight and is expected to arrive in Karachi by 3:45 pm the following day, March 17. Along its route, the train will make important stops at Okara, Sahiwal, and Khanewal, providing passengers from these cities with convenient boarding and disembarking options. This route is particularly significant as it links Punjab’s heartland with the southern metropolis, catering to a large number of travelers.
Following this, the second special train will commence its journey from Quetta to Rawalpindi on March 17. This service will pass through several major stops including Sukkur, Rahim Yar Khan, Khanewal, and Lahore, thereby connecting Balochistan with northern Punjab. The train’s schedule is tailored to accommodate passengers traveling long distances, ensuring timely arrivals ahead of Eid festivities. This route is crucial for those residing in the western parts of the country who plan to celebrate Eid in the northern regions.
On the same day, March 17, the third special train will operate from Karachi to Peshawar. This extensive route covers a wide geographic area, linking the southern port city with the northern capital of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. The train will stop at several major cities along the way, providing an essential travel option for passengers moving across provinces. This service is expected to be highly popular given the diverse population and strong familial ties across these regions.
The fourth and final special train is set to depart from Karachi to Lahore on March 18. This service aims to assist travelers reaching Punjab in time for Eid celebrations, offering an alternative to regular trains that are often fully booked during this period. By providing this additional option, Pakistan Railways hopes to reduce travel-related stress and improve overall passenger experience during the holiday rush.
In conjunction with the announcement of these special trains, Pakistan Railways also confirmed recent adjustments in ticket pricing. Earlier in March, fares were increased in response to rising fuel costs, a move that aligns with the government’s decision to raise petrol and diesel prices by Rs55 per litre. Economy class tickets have seen a 5% hike, while fares for air-conditioned coaches have gone up by 10%. Additionally, cargo train rates have surged by 20%, reflecting the broader impact of fuel price inflation on railway operations.
These fare changes took effect starting Monday, March 9, but advance bookings made prior to this date remain unaffected. Despite the increase in operational expenses, Pakistan Railways has committed to absorbing some of the additional costs for passenger services to keep travel affordable. The ex-depot price of high-speed diesel now stands at Rs335.86 per litre, marking nearly a 20% rise, while petrol prices have climbed approximately 17% to Rs321.17 per litre. This economic backdrop underscores the challenges faced by the railways in balancing service provision with financial sustainability.
Passengers planning to travel during Eid ul Fitr 2026 are strongly encouraged to secure their tickets well in advance and to carefully review train schedules, including all intermediate stops. Early booking will help avoid last-minute complications and ensure a more comfortable journey amid the expected surge in demand. Pakistan Railways continues to prioritize passenger safety and convenience, striving to make Eid travel a pleasant experience for all.
