All aboard: Five features of Pakistan Railways’ new business train

Dubai: Pakistan Railways is ready to unveil a cutting-edge business train service marking a major leap forward in the country’s rail modernisation plans.

Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif is set to inaugurate the train on July 19 in Lahore. The new train will serve the busy Lahore–Karachi corridor and promises to redefine rail travel for business and premium passengers.

Here are five standout features of the new business train:

1. 28 fully digitised coaches

The train comes equipped with 28 modern coaches, featuring fully digitised systems to enhance passenger experience—from booking to on-board controls and real-time updates.

2. Free high-speed Wi-Fi

Stay connected on the go with complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi throughout the journey. A game-changer for business travelers and digital nomads alike.

3. International-standard dining car

Passengers can enjoy a world-class dining experience aboard, with a revamped international-standard dining car offering quality meals and premium service.

4. Digital ticketing

As part of a wider rail reform push, Pakistan Railways is rolling out digital ticketing systems and improving facilities at train stations across the country to offer a smoother, more efficient travel experience.

5. Public-private partnerships

The initiative reflects a broader shift toward public-private collaboration, with parts of the rail service including brake and luggage van operations already earning billions in revenue through outsourced services.

The launch of this business train is just one piece of a larger vision, which includes the proposed Lahore–Rawalpindi bullet train project aimed at halving travel time between the two cities from five hours to 2.5 hours.