Pakistan Railways has suspended all train services between Lahore, Rawalpindi, and Peshawar over security concerns that a protest might take place.
Panic in the federal capital after a major party made protest calls has now led Pakistan Railways to suspend all services between Lahore, Rawalpindi, and Peshawar. Immediately discontinued are those services from Multan and Faisalabad to Rawalpindi, canceling all 25 booked trains for Sunday, November 24. Passengers are being offered immediate refunds at temporary booking counters set up at sealed railway stations. Heavy police presence has been deployed at sealed railway stations with access heavily restricted.
Also Read: PTI Protest Leads to Major Travel Disruptions
Security Precautions and the Relationship between the General Public
The suspension allows of services because of security considerations triggered by today’s protest at Islamabad, which is now closed into both entries and exits by commercial containers. Disruption in mobile internet services prevails in Islamabad and Rawalpindi. Other towns around both twin cities have also observed partial disruptions in internet services, though mobile networks still work. The public, however, expressed frustration over the abruptness of transportation services since it stranded many travelers and pushed some to search for alternative travel options.
Impact on Commuters
Suspended train services have really troubled commuters. All the other highways and bus terminals are jammed, and now people have started completely relying on trains as their travel options. Rawalpindi Railway Station has filled up with passengers, which caused crowding and queue formation. The temporary arrangements that have been made to control the crowd fell woefully short of the large demand that exists. The authorities have advised the people to keep themselves updated regarding the current condition and plan traveling accordingly.
Also Read: Protests Cause Closure of Lahore-Islamabad GT Road
Conclusion: The suspension of train services and internet disruption highlights the intensity of the upcoming protest that spreads to public transport and day-to-day life in the area. While the authorities ensure the safety of the armed forces deployed at various sites, the public has also been asked to be calm and look for alternate means of travel.