Pakistan Railways has suspended train services on the Quetta-Peshawar route amid widespread flooding that has disrupted infrastructure across the country. The decision was made to ensure passenger safety after heavy rains caused landslides and damaged critical sections of the track.
The suspended trains include the Khyber Mail and Sindh Express, which are key services connecting Balochistan’s Quetta to Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s Peshawar. Authorities reported that multiple stretches of the railway line in the Khyber Agency and Nowshera districts were inundated or blocked by debris, making travel unsafe.
Impact on Commuters
Thousands of passengers, including travelers and daily commuters, were stranded at various stations. Pakistan Railways advised affected passengers to delay their journeys until services resume. Alternative transportation options, such as buses and private vehicles, remain limited due to flooded roads in many areas.
Relief Efforts
Railway officials, in collaboration with local authorities, are working to clear the tracks and assess damage. Emergency teams are prioritizing repairs to restore services as quickly as possible. However, the process may take days, depending on the severity of the flooding and weather conditions.
Broader Flood Crisis
The suspension aligns with Pakistan’s broader struggle to manage catastrophic floods that have submerged large parts of the country. Over a million people have been displaced, and infrastructure, including roads, bridges, and railways, has suffered significant damage. Government and relief agencies are focusing on rescue operations, providing food, and rebuilding critical facilities.
Next Steps
Pakistan Railways has not announced an exact timeline for resuming services but has assured the public that updates will be shared regularly. Travelers are urged to check official platforms for the latest information before planning trips.