LAHORE: The Pakistan Railways on Thursday restored operations of the historic Babu Passenger train between Lahore and Lalamusa after six years to facilitate commuters travelling along the route.

The train’s operation had been discontinued soon after the start of the Covid-19 pandemic.

The 205 Up/206 Down service resumed operations on the Lahore–Lala Musa–Lahore section with effect from August 20, according to a press release issued by the Pakistan Railways. The train will depart from the Lahore Railway Station daily at 4:40pm and, after passing through Gujranwala, Wazirabad and Gujrat, will reach Lala Musa at 7:45pm. The return service will leave Lala Musa at 5:10am and arrive at the Lahore Railway Station at 8:15am.

The passenger train comprises five economy-class coaches and a power van, offering low-cost travel to a large number of passengers on a daily basis. On Thursday, the train was decorated before departing from Lahore to mark its restoration. Passengers expressed happiness over the resumption of the service and appreciated the Pakistan Railways’ initiative.

PR Lahore Divisional Superintendent Inamullah welcomed the restoration, describing it as a positive development for commuters. He said that further measures would be taken to provide additional travel facilities to the public under the leadership of Federal Minister for Railways Muhammad Hanif Abbasi.

Mr Inamullah said Pakistan Railways would continue taking practical measures to provide passengers with safe, comfortable and punctual travel facilities.

Published in Dawn, August 21st, 2026