Lahore-Wagah shuttle train service resumes after a hiatus of 22 long years

The train service between Lahore and Wagah Railway station resumed operation recently, after a gap of 22 long years. As per the reports, the shuttle train service will complete three trips daily, each carrying a capacity of 181 passengers.
Referring to this, Railway Chief Operating Superintendent of Aamir Baloch said that the train has been named ‘Rail Car’, and that all arrangements for running the train have been made. He also added that the shuttle train will provide commute to the passengers desiring to witness the flag ceremony in the evening, while Pakistan Rangers on Wagah Border and Indian Border Force on the other side will be responsible for managing the security affairs.
As per records, the said train used to shuttle between Wagha, Jallo, and Lahore railway stations, which lasted for several years since the partition and continued till 1997. Reportedly, the route was used by the people of the border area, apart from other residents. The railway service was, however, completely shut down in 1997 due to some security and operational reasons. Businessmen from Lahore used to commute by the shuttle trains and return in the evening, but after the closure of this service, people faced economical and safe travel facility.
Referring to the resumption of the train service, Baloch also stated that the train would provide convenient transportation option for people, including aged people and children, who want to witness flag-hoisting ceremony at Wagah Border and Jalo Park. He also mentioned that if the train service is able to attract people and there is an increase in its demand, more passenger bogies will likely be added and renovated to the shuttle service. He also proposed that this service be extended to Kot Lakhpat, Shahdara Railway Station, and Kot Radha Krishnan Railway Station.