Train Cancellations Deepen Pakistan Railways Crisis
Pakistan Railways cancelled 11 passenger trains scheduled to depart from Karachi for major cities across the country, leaving thousands of travellers stranded and exposing the ongoing operational crisis within the national rail network.
The sudden cancellations affected routes to Peshawar, Rawalpindi, Islamabad, Lahore, Multan, and other major destinations, disrupting travel plans for passengers who had already arrived at railway stations expecting to board their trains.
Major Trains Suspended
The services cancelled for the day included several key long-distance routes:
- Rehman Baba Express
- Pakistan Express
- Karakoram Express
- Allama Iqbal Express
- Business Express
- Mehran Express
- Millat Express
- Tezgam
- Karachi Express
- Khushhal Khan Khattak Express
- Zakaria Express
- Fareed Express
These trains connect Karachi with major population centres across Pakistan, meaning the suspension created significant disruption for passengers relying on the rail network for long-distance travel.
Technical Issues Cited by Officials
Railway authorities said the cancellations were caused by technical faults and operational problems affecting locomotives and infrastructure. Officials indicated that services could resume once the technical issues are reviewed and resolved.
The abrupt disruption forced many travellers to wait for hours at stations before eventually returning home, highlighting the lack of timely communication and contingency planning during service interruptions.
Labour Dispute Raises Additional Concerns
Railway labour organisations offered a different explanation for the disruption, suggesting the cancellations may be linked to a growing dispute between railway management and employees.
Workers have reportedly begun a “work-to-rule” protest, a labour tactic where employees strictly follow rules and safety procedures without taking additional responsibilities that normally keep operations running smoothly.
Such actions can slow operations significantly, particularly in large transport systems that depend on informal coordination and flexibility among staff.
Broader Crisis Facing Pakistan Railways
The latest cancellations reflect deeper structural challenges facing Pakistan Railways, including aging infrastructure, financial strain, and management issues that have repeatedly disrupted services in recent years.
With Eid-ul-Fitr travel approaching, continued disruptions could place further pressure on the already strained rail system and inconvenience thousands of passengers planning inter-city travel.
Railway authorities are expected to review the situation and decide whether the suspended services can resume normal operations in the coming days.
