Pakistan Railways has relaunched its upgraded Safari Tourist Train from Rawalpindi, marking a renewed push to promote domestic tourism and improve passenger experience, officials said on Sunday.
The service, inaugurated by Federal Minister for Railways Hanif Abbasi at Rawalpindi Railway Station, will run along a scenic route to Attock Khurd, passing through historically rich and picturesque locations including Golra and Margalla.
Speaking at the ceremony, Abbasi said the train had undergone a comprehensive upgrade aimed at improving comfort and attracting tourists. “The train was operational earlier as well, but the difference now is our approach and commitment to providing better facilities to the public,” he said.
All coaches have been equipped with air conditioning and cushioned seating, while additional onboard facilities have been introduced for both passengers and railway staff.
Tourism-focused experience
Officials said the train is designed as a tourism-oriented service rather than a regular passenger route. The journey includes short stopovers at key stations, where passengers are provided refreshments and briefed on the historical importance of the sites.
The route offers views of the Margalla Hills, Taxila region and Attock’s historic infrastructure, including a 160-year-old iron bridge dating back to the British era.
Passengers are also expected to spend several hours at Attock Khurd, where activities such as sightseeing, guided tours and recreational experiences are planned before returning to Rawalpindi the same day.
Additional amenities include Wi-Fi, meals, and refreshments, reflecting an effort to position the train as a family-friendly leisure product.
Wider reforms in Pakistan Railways
The relaunch comes as part of broader reforms announced by the government to revive Pakistan Railways, which has long faced issues such as outdated locomotives, aging tracks and financial losses.
Abbasi said Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif had approved a bailout package to ensure uninterrupted supply of electricity and gas for railway operations, adding that visible improvements were expected in the coming months.
He also revealed that work on the Lahore to Rawalpindi railway track would begin in September at an estimated cost of Rs2.5 billion, while joint projects with provincial governments, including upgrades at Rohri Junction, were also in the pipeline.
Efforts are underway to expand connectivity to Thar coalfields and enhance freight digitisation to improve efficiency and reduce interference in operations, the minister said.
Highlighting workforce concerns, Abbasi pointed to the need for better facilities for train drivers and technical staff. “A train driver responsible for over 1,000 passengers has none. We intend to change that,” he said.
Push for regional tourism revival
The Safari Train is part of a broader attempt to revive railway-based tourism in Pakistan, a concept previously explored through initiatives such as the Khyber Train Safari.
Officials say similar tourism trains are also being planned for Sindh, as authorities look to capitalise on heritage routes and scenic landscapes to boost domestic travel.
While earlier versions of the Safari Train were discontinued due to financial losses, the government hopes that upgraded facilities and a renewed focus on tourism will make the service sustainable this time.
