Pakistan Railways inaugurates upgraded Karakoram Express in Lahore

LAHORE: Pakistan Railways inaugurated an upgraded Karakoram Express at its headquarters in Lahore on Monday, with Chief Executive Officer Muhammad Hafeezullah formally launching the new rake.

Lahore Divisional Superintendent Inamullah and other senior railway officials attended the ceremony, Dawn reported. Hafeezullah inspected different coaches of the upgraded train and reviewed the facilities provided to passengers.

The Nation reported that Pakistan Railways has introduced a new rake for the Karakoram Express as part of the upgrade. The new coaches are fitted with what officials described as modern travel facilities.

Speaking at the inauguration, Hafeezullah said other passenger trains would also be upgraded in phases, Dawn reported. He said the railway was focused on improving passenger service, according to the report.

The reports did not specify the exact routes, number of coaches, or cost of the upgrade. Pakistan Railways has been carrying out phased improvements to its rolling stock.

The Karakoram Express, named after the mountain range that runs through Gilgit-Baltistan, is among the railways' long-distance passenger services. The name links the train to the northern areas, but the train itself does not serve Gilgit-Baltistan.

The inauguration was held at the railway headquarters, not at a station along the route. No passenger service changes were announced in the available reports.

The upgrade comes as Pakistan Railways continues to renew its fleet, with officials saying more trains will undergo similar improvements in the coming phases.

Further details about the timetable, fares, and onboard services were not immediately available.