Pakistan Railways Issues New Order: Who Can Claim Travel Concessions on Private-Run Trains?

Pakistan Railways has directed private companies operating outsourced passenger trains to accept valid railway passes, privilege ticket orders (PTOs) and concession cards for eligible travellers.

The instructions were issued by the Office of the Chief Commercial Manager at Pakistan Railways Headquarters in Lahore on October 27, 2026. The department said private operators must follow the railway rules and the conditions set out in their agreements.

Who Can Get Travel Concessions?

The directive covers eligible passengers who qualify for travel facilities under Pakistan Railways rules, including:

• Senior citizens

• Persons with disabilities

• Journalists

• Railway employees

• Retired railway employees and other entitled passengers

The concessions apply according to the relevant rules and the type of pass or travel facility held by the passenger. Eligibility should be confirmed before booking.

What Do the Rules Say?

Pakistan Railways referred to Clause 5.15 of its agreements with private operators. This clause requires companies to honour eligible railway employee passes, post-retirement passes, duty and privilege ticket orders, special passes, and approved concessions for other entitled categories.

The rules also state that the relevant concession quota expires 48 hours before the train’s departure. Passengers should therefore check the booking deadline and availability before making travel arrangements.

Why Has Pakistan Railways Issued the Directive?

According to the department’s letter, complaints had been received about eligible passengers being refused concessions on outsourced trains. These complaints were submitted through the Pakistan Citizen Portal and the office of the Wafaqi Mohtasib, also known as the Federal Ombudsman.

Pakistan Railways has instructed the concerned private operators to comply with the agreement terms immediately and provide all applicable concessions under the rules.

What Should Passengers Do If a Concession Is Refused?

Passengers who believe they qualify for a concession should carry their valid pass, card or other required documents when booking and travelling.

If an eligible concession is refused, they can contact the relevant Pakistan Railways authorities or submit a complaint through the Pakistan Citizen Portal. Keeping booking details and relevant documents may help officials review the complaint.

Passengers should check the conditions of their particular pass before travelling, as concessions are subject to eligibility rules and booking deadlines.