Federal Minister for Railways Sheikh Rasheed announced on Thursday temporary suspension of 10 passenger trains across Pakistan.
There are 134 passenger trains operational across the country and the railways have decided to stop 10 of these temporarily. The freight operation will, however, continue as per routine. Sheikh said that railways authorities will sit again on March 25 and decide the future course of action.
The railways minister also met Prime Minister Imran Khan on Thursday to discuss train operations in the wake of coronavirus outbreak in the country. PM Khan directed the railways authorities to ensure safety of passengers and cleanliness measures at all railway stations and in passenger trains.
“Make sure passengers use sanitisers and masks to prevent the spread of virus. Railway authorities must ensure screening of passengers,” the PM said.
Earlier on Thursday morning, the Pakistan Railways ordered suspension of six trains from Karachi to various parts of Sindh from March 22 amid coronavirus pandemic, 24NewsHD reported. The suspended trains included: Khushal Khan Khattak Express, Akbar Bugti Express, Sindh Express, Shah Latif Express, Ravi Express and Rohi Express.