GUJRAT: Another shuttle train service between Malakwal and Pind Dadan Khan has been shut down until April 15, causing inconvenience to the daily commuters between the two towns.

An official at the Malakwal Railway Station said the service of 5:30pm had been suspended until April 15 due to the less number of passengers in Ramazan and it might be resumed prior to Eidul Fitr.

The railway authorities had earlier shut the morning trip of 8am and now the evening train had also been shut down, leaving the service for only one trip of 11am. It is learnt that the morning train was closed due to the less revenue generation.

The shuttle service was launched between the towns since no direct road link was available between them and the locals of the area had to travel via boat to cross the Jhelum river to reach their destination. A lot of people have their employment in both these towns.

The locals have urged the railways authorities resume the shuttle train service that has been a big facility for them since long.

Published in Dawn, March 28th, 2023