SUKKUR, Sept 5: The Karakoram Express, composed of air-conditioned coaches imported from China, on Thursday reached Karachi almost four hours late.

The train, introduced on Aug 14, was late by three and half hours when it reached the Rohri Railway Station in the morning.

Railways sources said the delay was caused by repeated engine failures.

The passengers have complained about the maintenance of the train and said the sheets, which were provided to them, had become dirty and had not been replaced.

Talking to Dawn, many passengers complained about high prices being charged for various food items in the train.

According to them, Rs16 are being charged for a cup of tea and breakfast is provided for Rs80.

It may be mentioned here that a Lahore-based hotel has been given the contract to supply sheets to passengers travelling on reserved seats but these sheets have not been dry-cleaned since the train started operation.

Moreover, the hotel, which is given the contract to provide lunch and dinner, is charging Rs225 to Rs300 for lunch and dinner.