Pakistan Railways orders private train operators to accept passes, PTOs and concession cards

Pakistan Railways has ordered the private companies running its outsourced trains to accept railway passes, privilege ticket orders (PTOs) and concession cards, after passengers complained they were being turned away.

The order, issued on Tuesday, 27 October, by the Office of the Chief Commercial Manager at Pakistan Railways Headquarters in Lahore, names five operators: S. Jamil & Company, ZKB-BT JV, AA Enterprises, Prime Rail and Lasani Cargo, ARY News reported. They must comply "strictly and immediately".

Who is covered

• Senior citizens
• Journalists
• Persons with disabilities
• Railway employees, including privilege and post-retirement passes
• Holders of duty and privilege ticket orders (PTOs) and special passes
• Other categories entitled to concessions

Why the order was needed

Clause 5.15 of each operator's agreement already requires them to accept these passes and concessions in all classes. The letter says the operators had been told this several times, but Railways kept getting complaints through the Pakistan Citizen Portal and the Wafaqi Mohtasib (Federal Ombudsman).

What you should know before travelling

• Quota: the concession quota lapses 48 hours before departure, so book at least two days ahead.
• If refused: keep your ticket or booking reference and file a complaint on the Pakistan Citizen Portal, naming the train and operator.
• Booking: see our guide to Pakistan Railways online booking on RABTA for how to book and refund.

The order comes as Pakistan Railways runs under an emergency until 31 December, with officers' leave cancelled.