Pakistan Railways hikes train fares announced a 3% increase in the fares of various freight trains, effective from July 3, 2024. This fare hike comes as a response to the recent revision of petroleum prices by the government, driven by the increasing trend in international oil prices.
However, certain freight categories will be exempt from the fare increase. These exemptions include steel coils, petroleum products, LHC, LMC, and hunting charges. The decision to raise fares follows the government’s increase in petrol prices by Rs7.45 per litre, raising it from Rs258.16 to Rs265.61 per litre, effective from July 1-15. Additionally, the price of high-speed diesel (HSD) has also been increased by Rs9.56, from Rs267.89 to Rs277.45 per litre, effective July 1.
The notification from Pakistan Railways highlights that the prices of petroleum products have seen an increasing trend in the international market over the last fortnight, necessitating this price adjustment. This marks the first price revision since the announcement of the federal budget for the fiscal year 2024-25 on June 12.
In summary, Pakistan Railways has increased freight train fares by 3% to offset the rise in petroleum prices, which have surged due to trends in international oil markets. Certain freight categories have been exempted from the fare hike to minimize the impact on specific sectors.