LAHORE – Pakistan Railways has decided to resume the Shalimar Express service between Lahore and Karachi from August 14 after a nearly two-week suspension caused by flood-related damage to railway infrastructure.
The premium train, which previously operated between Lahore and Karachi via Faisalabad, will now run through Sahiwal due to the closure of a railway bridge damaged by floodwaters.
According to railway authorities, the revised route will include five stops: Kot Lakhpat, Raiwind, Okara, Sahiwal and Sadiqabad.
The Shalimar Express is being operated under a public-private partnership. Its management has announced a 14% discount on fares for all classes following the resumption of the service.
The train was suspended after floodwaters affected the Qila Sattar Shah-Musan Kallar railway bridge, disrupting train operations between Lahore and Faisalabad.
In view of the damage, the railway authorities have opted to operate the Shalimar Express via Sahiwal instead of Faisalabad until the affected railway infrastructure is restored.
The resumption of the service is expected to facilitate passengers travelling between Lahore and Karachi, particularly those affected by disruptions to rail operations caused by the floods.
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