Pakistan Railways Brings Back Two Suspended Passenger Trains
Pakistan Railways has confirmed the return of two regional passenger trains that had been out of service since 2020. Babu Passenger and Sandal Express stopped running when the COVID 19 pandemic forced transport authorities across the country to cut services.
Both trains stayed suspended even after normal travel resumed. Now, after repeated requests from passengers, Pakistan Railways says the routes are finally set to reopen this month.
Babu Passenger: Lahore to Lala Musa Route Restarts August 20
Babu Passenger resumes operations on August 20, running between Lahore and Lala Musa. It is a passenger service, not an express train, so it stops at more stations along the way.
That makes it useful for people in smaller towns who need a low cost way to reach Lahore for work, college, or medical care. Riders coming from areas without direct bus links often depend on services like this one.
Sandal Express: Multan to Sargodha via Jhang Returns August 21
One day later, on August 21, Sandal Express restarts on the Multan to Sargodha corridor through Jhang. This route runs through parts of central and southern Punjab known for farming and local trade.
Farmers heading to wholesale markets, students commuting to college, and traders moving goods between district towns are among those expected to use the service most.
Why Pakistan Railways Suspended These Trains in the First Place
The COVID 19 outbreak in 2020 hit rail travel hard. Pakistan Railways cut several passenger services because of travel restrictions and a sharp drop in demand. Many routes came back once restrictions eased, but Babu Passenger and Sandal Express stayed off the schedule for years.
According to official announcements, the decision to bring them back now follows passenger demand and better operational planning. Railways Minister Hanif Abbasi has also said more suspended services could return later this year, though no full list has been released yet.
Comparison: During COVID 19 vs Now
| During COVID 19 | Current Situation |
|---|---|
| Passenger trains suspended | Selected services gradually returning |
| Lower passenger demand | Demand has recovered in many regions |
| Limited rail operations | More routes being restored |
| Focus on health restrictions | Focus on regional connectivity |
Why This Matters for Regional Travelers in Punjab
Passenger trains fill a gap that express services and buses often miss. They stop more often, cost less, and reach smaller towns directly. For daily wage workers, students, and small traders, that difference matters a lot.
This kind of regional connectivity push mirrors other transport projects across the country, including the Murree glass train project and Punjab’s rollout of low cost electric buses in seven cities, both aimed at giving commuters cheaper travel options.
Road transport upgrades are moving in parallel too. Projects like the Karachi Chaman highway rebuild show that both rail and road networks are getting fresh attention this year.
What Happens Next
Pakistan Railways has confirmed the restart dates, but passengers should still check updated timetables before traveling. Schedules, stopping stations, and fares can be confirmed through the official Pakistan Railways website.
How well these two trains run in the coming months could shape whether other suspended routes return sooner. Reliable timing, clean coaches, and steady ticket availability will likely decide how much trust passengers place back in these services.
Frequently Asked Questions
When will Babu Passenger resume service?
Babu Passenger restarts on August 20, 2026, running between Lahore and Lala Musa.
When is Sandal Express returning?
Sandal Express resumes on August 21, 2026, connecting Multan, Jhang and Sargodha.
Why were these trains suspended?
Both were suspended in 2020 during the COVID 19 pandemic and remained inactive even after travel restrictions eased.
Why is Pakistan Railways restoring these routes now?
Pakistan Railways points to repeated passenger requests and rising demand for affordable regional travel.
Will more suspended passenger trains return in 2026?
Railways Minister Hanif Abbasi has said more suspended services are expected to return later this year, though a complete list has not been announced.
Where can passengers check updated train schedules?
Passengers can check the official Pakistan Railways website, its e-ticketing portal, or local reservation offices.
