Pakistan Railways has unveiled revised working hours for its reservation offices across the country during Ramadan. The updated schedule aims to facilitate passengers and staff observing the holy month. The changes include adjusted shifts and breaks for prayers, ensuring smooth operations while accommodating religious practices.
Revised Shifts for Reservation Offices
According to a recent notification, reservation offices will operate in two shifts during Ramadan. The morning shift will run from 7:30 AM to 12:30 PM, while the evening shift will be from 12:30 PM to 5:30 PM. Offices operating on a single shift will maintain their regular hours. These timings will remain effective until the 15th of Ramadan.
Juma Prayer Break on Fridays
On Fridays, reservation offices will observe a break from 12:30 PM to 2:00 PM to allow staff and passengers to attend Juma prayers. This adjustment reflects Pakistan Railways’ commitment to respecting religious obligations while maintaining service efficiency. The break ensures minimal disruption to operations while prioritizing the spiritual needs of its workforce and customers.
Temporary Timings Until Mid-Ramadan
The revised schedule will remain in place until the 15th of Ramadan, after which all offices will revert to their standard working hours. This temporary adjustment is designed to provide convenience during the fasting month. Pakistan Railways aims to balance operational efficiency with the well-being of its employees and passengers during this sacred period.
Suspension of Sir Syed Express
In a separate development, Pakistan Railways has suspended the Sir Syed Express due to financial constraints faced by the private company managing the train. The service, which operated between Karachi and Rawalpindi, was outsourced to the private sector. Its discontinuation has left passengers seeking alternative travel options on this route.
Resumption of Shah Hussain Express
Meanwhile, Pakistan Railways has resumed the Shah Hussain Express service between Karachi and Lahore. This move comes as a relief to travelers, providing a reliable option for long-distance journeys. The train offers stops at major cities, including Hyderabad, Rohri, Bahawalpur, Lodhran, Khanewal, and Faisalabad, catering to a wide range of passengers.
Shah Hussain Express Schedule
The Shah Hussain Express operates on the following schedule:
- Karachi to Lahore: Departs at 7:30 PM, arrives at 2:15 PM.
- Lahore to Karachi: Departs at 7:00 PM, arrives at 2:05 PM.
The train’s schedule is designed to accommodate passengers traveling between the two major cities, ensuring timely and comfortable journeys.
Train Composition and Facilities
The Shah Hussain Express consists of 10 economy-class coaches, 2 AC business-class coaches, 2 AC standard-class coaches, a power plant, and a brake van. This composition ensures a comfortable travel experience for passengers across different budget ranges. The inclusion of AC coaches highlights Pakistan Railways’ efforts to enhance passenger comfort and convenience.
Commitment to Passenger Convenience
Pakistan Railways’ recent announcements reflect its dedication to improving services and addressing passenger needs. From adjusting Ramadan timings to resuming key train services, the organization is striving to provide efficient and reliable transportation options. These efforts underscore its role as a vital component of the country’s public transport infrastructure.
Conclusion
Pakistan Railways’ updated Ramadan timings and operational changes demonstrate its commitment to balancing religious observance with service efficiency. The suspension of the Sir Syed Express and the resumption of the Shah Hussain Express highlight ongoing efforts to adapt to challenges and meet passenger demands. These initiatives aim to ensure a seamless travel experience during the holy month and beyond.
