Pakistan Railways to Run 5 Eid Special Trains from Major Cities

LAHORE: In a bid to handle the expected surge in passenger traffic during Eid-ul-Adha, Pakistan Railways has announced the operation of five special trains connecting major cities including Karachi, Lahore, Quetta, Rawalpindi, and Peshawar.

This initiative has been launched following the directives of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and is currently being overseen by Federal Railways Minister Muhammad Hanif Abbasi. The goal is to provide affordable and convenient travel options to citizens heading home for the holiday.

Complete Schedule of Eid Trains

• June 2: The first train will leave Karachi Cantt at 1:00 PM and is expected to reach Lahore by 10:00 AM on June 3.
• June 3: The second train departs from Quetta at 10:00 AM, arriving at Peshawar Cantt around 10:30 PM on June 4.
• June 3: The third special train will start its journey from Lahore at 5:00 PM, reaching Karachi Cantt by 2:00 PM on June 4.
• June 3: The fourth train will leave Karachi Cantt at 7:30 PM and is scheduled to arrive in Rawalpindi by 1:15 AM on June 5.
• June 4: The fifth and final Eid special train will depart Karachi Cantt, reaching Lahore by 5:30 PM on June 5.

Expected Date of Eid-ul-Adha 2025

As per forecasts by SUPARCO and the Pakistan Meteorological Department, the Zil Hajj moon is expected to form on May 27, but it is unlikely to be visible that night. Consequently, Zil Hajj is likely to begin on May 29, making Eid-ul-Adha most probably fall on June 7—pending the final announcement by the Ruet-e-Hilal Committee.

About Eid-ul-Adha Celebration

Eid-ul-Adha, also called the Festival of Sacrifice, honors the obedience and devotion of Prophet Ibrahim (AS), who was willing to sacrifice his son as an act of submission to Allah’s command.

In Pakistan, the festival spans three days and includes congregational prayers, ritual animal sacrifices, and festive meals shared with family, friends, and the less fortunate.

Travel Guidelines for Passengers

Pakistan Railways has urged passengers to book their tickets in advance due to the expected rush. Travelers are also encouraged to follow safety procedures and cooperate with railway staff for a smooth and secure journey during the Eid holidays.