Islamabad, October 4, 2024 – Pakistan Railways has successfully collected over Rs. 20 million in fines from ticketless passengers in a major crackdown across its nationwide network. The initiative, aimed at curbing fare evasion and enhancing revenue, was launched earlier this year and has seen significant success in deterring individuals from traveling without valid tickets.
According to the Railway officials, the ongoing campaign involves increased inspections by ticket-checking teams, both on trains and at stations. The fines range from Rs. 500 to Rs. 2,000, depending on the distance traveled and the specific circumstances of the fare evasion.
A spokesperson for Pakistan Railways emphasized the importance of the initiative not just for financial recovery, but also for improving the quality of service. “The funds collected from ticketless passengers will be reinvested into the maintenance and modernization of our rail network,” the spokesperson stated. “This crackdown also serves as a deterrent to others who might consider avoiding ticket purchases, ensuring a more orderly and efficient travel experience for all passengers.”
Since the launch of the campaign, ticketless travel has reportedly decreased by over 30%, with more passengers opting to buy their tickets in advance, especially with the introduction of digital platforms and mobile apps by Pakistan Railways to streamline the booking process.
The railway department also plans to expand its efforts by incorporating additional technologies such as RFID systems for better tracking of passengers and enhanced security across all major routes.
In addition to financial benefits, officials believe that these efforts will improve the overall image of Pakistan Railways, making it a more reliable and accountable service for the public.
