Pakistan Railways has officially finalized its plan to operate four special trains for the upcoming Eid-ul-Fitr 2026 season. This annual initiative aims to facilitate the millions of people traveling from major urban centers like Karachi, Lahore, and Quetta back to their hometowns for the holidays.
In a major relief for the public, the department has also announced a significant fare reduction, ensuring that the holiday commute remains affordable despite recent inflationary pressures.
Facilitating the 2026 Eid-ul-Fitr Rush
The “Eid Rush” is one of the most significant logistical challenges for Pakistan’s transport sector. With thousands of passengers expected to travel simultaneously, Pakistan Railways has prioritized the deployment of extra rolling stock.
By adding these special trains, the department expects to accommodate over 50,000 additional passengers who would otherwise be unable to secure seats on regular scheduled services. These trains are equipped with both Economy and AC classes to cater to different budget segments.
Official Schedule for Special Trains
For 2026, the special trains will operate on the country’s busiest routes. The schedule is designed to start three days before the expected date of Eid and continue for two days after.
Train 1: Karachi to Peshawar
The first special train will depart from Karachi Cantonment Station, heading toward Peshawar. This route serves as a lifeline for workers and families from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa who live in the southern port city. It will pass through major junctions including Hyderabad, Rohri, and Multan.
Read more: Pakistan Railways to launch special trains for Sikh pilgrims
Train 2: Quetta to Rawalpindi
The second special train is dedicated to the residents of Balochistan. Departing from Quetta, it will travel to Rawalpindi, providing essential connectivity for those heading to northern Punjab and the capital territory.
Train 3: Karachi to Lahore
A high-demand route, the third special train will bridge Karachi and Lahore. This service is intended to decongest regular trains like the Karakoram Express and the Karachi Express, which typically see full bookings weeks in advance.
Train 4: Lahore to Karachi (Return)
The fourth train is a return-special, primarily designed to facilitate students and families in Lahore traveling back to Karachi. This train will focus on providing late-night departures to ensure travelers can reach their destinations by the morning of Eid.
25% Fare Discount and Ticket Pricing
In a move aimed at public welfare, the Ministry of Railways has authorized a 25% fare discount for all classes. This discount applies specifically to tickets purchased for travel on the first and second days of Eid-ul-Fitr.
For all other days during the Eid period, fares will remain at the standard 2026 rates. The department has issued a stern warning against the “black marketing” of tickets, deploying special police squads at major stations to verify passenger IDs against their tickets.
How to Book Online via Pak Rail App
To avoid the long queues at ticket counters, passengers are encouraged to use the “Pak Rail” mobile application. The app has undergone a technical overhaul in late 2025 to increase server capacity and prevent downtime during high-traffic periods.
Booking steps for 2026:
- Download the latest version of the Pak Rail app from the Play Store or App Store.
- Select the “Special Trains” tab from the main menu.
- Choose your departure and arrival stations.
- Complete the payment via EasyPaisa, JazzCash, or online banking to receive your e-ticket.
Upgraded Coaches and Safety Measures
Many of the special trains for 2026 will feature new, high-capacity coaches imported from China. These coaches offer improved suspension, larger windows, and better air conditioning systems compared to older models.
Furthermore, Pakistan Railways has enhanced security protocols. Every special train will have a dedicated contingent of Railway Police on board. Major stations have also been equipped with updated CCTV surveillance and walk-through gates to ensure the safety of families during the holiday period.
Travelers are advised to reach the station at least 45 minutes before departure due to the high volume of traffic and mandatory security checks.