New Metro Train Service Launched With Subsidized Fares

Balochistan has inaugurated the Jinnah Peoples Metro Train Service in Quetta, offering free travel to senior citizens and individuals with disabilities. The service was inaugurated by Balochistan Chief Minister Mir Sarfraz Bugti and Federal Minister for Railways Hanif Abbasi on Tuesday. Bugti highlighted that this marks Balochistan's first metro train service and will offer safe, comfortable, and affordable transportation for Quetta residents, particularly benefiting workers, students, professionals, and other residents.

Senior citizens and persons with disabilities will be able to travel free of charge, while others will pay subsidized fares. The provincial government plans to add a second train for bi-directional services and is extending the railway track towards Bostan Industrial Estate. Government officials are also considering future extensions towards Pishin, Bostan, and Mastung.

Initially, the government planned to import engines and coaches from China, estimating a cost of Rs. 50 billion to Rs. 60 billion, with completion expected within three to four years. However, following Abbasi's proposal, the government opted to manufacture the new engines and coaches through Pakistan Railways to save time and resources and utilize the national railway institution's capacity.