How Reliable Are Railway Services Between Major Cities?

Pakistan Railways connects major cities with varying reliability depending on routes and train classes. Premium services such as the Green Line — and other major express trains depending on current schedules — generally maintain better punctuality on routes like Karachi–Lahore and Lahore–Rawalpindi, though delays of 1-3 hours aren't uncommon due to infrastructure limitations and track maintenance.

Service Quality Varies:

• Executive and AC Business classes offer a more comfortable and better-maintained travel experience, though all classes can still be affected by system-wide delays.
• Economy classes are budget-friendly but often overcrowded and subject to longer delays
• Major routes (Karachi-Lahore, Lahore-Rawalpindi) have better service than smaller city connections

The railway system faces challenges including aging infrastructure, single-track sections causing delays, and priority given to freight trains. Overnight journeys can experience significant schedule variations. Booking through Pakistan Railways' official website or authorized agents is recommended. While the e-ticketing system has reduced overbooking on major routes, economy-class coaches can still become overcrowded during peak travel periods.

Practical Tips: Confirm departure times the day before travel, arrive early at stations, and consider premium classes for important journeys. Many travelers consider long-distance buses — particularly private operators — to be more reliable in terms of punctuality, though trains still offer affordable and scenic journeys. The railway experience can be enjoyable despite unpredictability, particularly on well-maintained express services where delays are less severe.