TAXILA: Ahead of the Eid holiday, Pakistan Railways has reduced the number of coaches on the Thal Express from eight to just four, leaving many passengers unable to board the train at Attock Railway Station on Tuesday.

The decision, made despite the expected surge in holiday travel, caused significant inconvenience for travelers, especially families and individuals returning to their hometowns for Eid celebrations.

Attock Railway Station witnessed scenes of frustration and disappointment as numerous passengers, particularly women and children, were left stranded due to the lack of available space.

Passengers criticised railway authorities for poor planning and demanded the immediate restoration of full coach capacity. Many questioned why the reduction occurred at a time of peak demand.

Railway officials have not yet issued an official statement on the matter.

Published in Dawn, June 4th, 2025