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Hazara Express (Pakistan Railways)
Hazara Express is a passenger train that operates daily under the management of Pakistan Railways. It runs between Karachi and Havelian, a city in the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province. The journey spans around 33 hours to cover a documented distance of 1,594 kilometres (990 miles). The train route encompasses various railway lines, including the Karachi–Peshawar Railway Line, Khanewal–Wazirabad Branch Line, Shorkot–Lalamusa Branch Line, and Taxila–Khunjerab Railway Line.
The Hazara Express, a key passenger train service in Pakistan, is managed by Pakistan Railways. This railway service operates between Karachi City Railway Station in Karachi, Sindh, and Havelian Railway Station in Havelian, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, traversing the scenic Hazara region. Renowned for its efficiency and comfort, the Hazara Express is the preferred choice for travellers commuting between these cities.
Operated daily by Pakistan Railways, the Hazara Express covers the route between Karachi and Havelian in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province. Below are some noteworthy details:
Route: The train follows the Karachi–Peshawar Railway Line, Khanewal–Wazirabad Branch Line, Shorkot–Lalamusa Branch Line, and Taxila–Khunjerab Railway Line.
Distance and Duration: The journey spans approximately 33 hours, covering a distance of 1,594 kilometres (990 miles).
Classes: Passengers can enjoy the amenities of AC Standard and Economy Class Coaches during their travel.
Type
Predecessor
Inter-city rail
Chenab Express
History
Before 2006, the Express was known as the Chenab Express, and it operated the route between Karachi and Peshawar, passing through Lala Musa, Faisalabad, and Multan.
Between 2013 and 2019, local media reports suggest that about 150 individuals lost their lives in similar incidents.
In 2021, a collision involving two trains transpired in the Sindh province, leading to the unfortunate demise of at least 40 individuals and causing injuries to a considerable number of people.
Tragedy struck on August 6, 2023, when the train derailed from Karachi to Rawalpindi. This catastrophic event claimed the lives of a minimum of 30 individuals and left around 100 people injured.
Previously known as the Chenab Express until 2006, the Hazara Express originally operated between Karachi and Peshawar via Lala Musa, Faisalabad, and Multan.
Service Type
Predecessor
First service
Former operator
Sleeping Arrangements
Catering Facilities
Track owner(s)
Inter-city rail
Chenab Express
2006
S. Jamil & Co.
Available
Available
Pakistan Railways
Route
- Karachi City–Khanewal Junction via Karachi–Peshawar Railway Line
- Khanewal Junction–Shorkot Cantonment Junction via Khanewal–Wazirabad Branch Line
- Shorkot Cantonment Junction–Lala Musa Junction via Shorkot–Lalamusa Branch Line
- Lala Musa Junction–Taxila Cantonment Junction via Karachi–Peshawar Railway Line
- Taxila Cantonment Junction–Havelian via Taxila–Khunjerab Railway Line
Termini
Stops
Distance Travelled
Journey Time
Train Number
Class
Track Gauge
Service Frequency
Karachi City , Havelian
50
1,594 kilometres (990 mi)
33 hours
11UP , 12DN
Economy
1,676 mm (5 ft 6 in)
Daily
Stops
- Karachi City
- Karachi Cantonment
- Drigh Road
- Landhi Junction
- Kotri Junction
- Hyderabad Junction
- Tando Adam Junction
- Nawabshah
- Pad Idan Junction
- Bhiria Road
- Mahrabpur Junction
- Rohri Junction
- Pano Akil
- Mirpur Mathelo
- Sadiqabad
- Rahim Yar Khan
- Khanpur Junction
- Liaquatpur
- Dera Nawab Sahib
- Mubarakpur
- Samasata Junction
- Bahawalpur
- Lodhran Junction
- Shujabad
- Multan Cantonment
- Khanewal Junction
- Shorkot Cantonment Junction
- Jhang Sadar
- Sillanwali
- Shahinabad Junction
- Sargodha Junction
- Bhalwal
- Malakwal Junction
- Mandi Bahauddin
- Dinga
- Lala Musa Junction
- Jhelum
- Gujar Khan
- Rawalpindi
- Taxila Cantonment
- Kot Najib Ullah
- Haripur Hazara
- Havelian
Connecting Karachi to Havelian
The Hazara Express is a vital lifeline connecting Karachi, a bustling metropolis in Sindh, to Havelian, a scenic town in the heart of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. En route, passengers are treated to breathtaking views of Pakistan’s diverse landscapes, making the journey a means of travel and an experience to cherish.
This passenger train, a cornerstone of Pakistan Railways, has a rich history dating back to its days as the Chenab Express. Over the years, it has evolved to cater to the changing needs of travellers, earning a reputation for reliability and service excellence.
With its well-appointed AC Standard and Economy Class Coaches, the Hazara Express offers travellers a choice between comfort and affordability. Whether embarking on a leisurely trip or a business venture, passengers can expect a smooth and pleasant journey aboard this iconic train.
Beyond its practical function as a mode of transportation, the Hazara Express symbolizes connectivity and unity, bridging cultural and geographical divides as it travels through diverse regions of Pakistan. It remains a testament to the country’s enduring legacy of rail travel, serving as a beacon of progress and development for generations to come.
Equipment
Hazara Express, a train operated by Pakistan Railways, is well-known for its good equipment and services. It aims to provide passengers with a comfortable and enjoyable journey. Here are the key pieces of equipment found on the Hazara Express:
Table of Hazara Express Equipment:
| Category | Equipment | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Passenger Coaches | Air-Conditioned Coaches | Cool and comfortable during hot weather |
| Economy Class Coaches | Affordable with basic comfort | |
| Sleeper Coaches | Beds for sleeping on long journeys | |
| Dining Car | Coach for buying meals, snacks, and drinks | |
| On-Board Services | Clean Restrooms | Toilets that are regularly cleaned |
| Passenger Information Systems | Real-time updates about train location and stops | |
| Luggage Compartments | Secure places to store luggage | |
| Safety and Security | Fire Extinguishers | Available in each coach for fire safety |
| Emergency Brake Systems | Can stop the train immediately during emergencies | |
| Surveillance Cameras | Monitors some areas of the train for security | |
| Technical Equipment | Modern Locomotives | New and reliable train engines |
| Advanced Signaling Systems | Helps in managing train movement safely |
FAQ (QA)
What is the top speed of the Hazara Express?
Which is the fastest train in Pakistan?
Who built the Hazara Expressway?
The Hazara Expressway, part of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), was constructed by the Government of Pakistan with significant investment and support from China. This expressway is a major infrastructure project aimed at enhancing connectivity and economic integration between Pakistan and China, facilitating trade routes, and improving access within Pakistan, especially for the Hazara region.
What is the story of Hazaras?
The Hazaras are an ethnic group primarily residing in Afghanistan and Pakistan, with a significant history marked by persecution and displacement. Historically, the Hazaras are believed to be descendants of the Mongol army led by Genghis Khan, which adds a unique aspect to their cultural and ethnic identity. Over the years, they have faced discrimination and violence, particularly in Afghanistan, where sectarian violence has targeted their Shia Muslim faith. In Pakistan, many Hazaras live in the Balochistan province, where they continue to face security challenges.
How many trains are in Pakistan?
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More Topics
- Historical Evolution: Explore the historical evolution of the Hazara Express, tracing its origins from the inception to its current form, highlighting key milestones, challenges, and achievements along the way.
- Cultural Significance: Investigate the cultural significance of the Hazara Express within the communities it serves, examining how it has become intertwined with local traditions, customs, and daily life.
- Technological Advancements: Analyze the technological advancements and innovations that have shaped the Hazara Express, from the introduction of modern locomotives to the implementation of digital ticketing systems and other infrastructure improvements.
- Environmental Impact: Assess the environmental impact of the Hazara Express, considering factors such as energy consumption, emissions, and efforts towards sustainability and eco-friendliness.
- Economic Influence: Delve into the economic influence of the Hazara Express on the regions it connects, exploring its role in facilitating trade, commerce, and economic development, as well as its implications for local industries and employment.
- Social Integration: Examine the role of the Hazara Express in fostering social integration and connectivity among diverse communities, including its contribution to cultural exchange, tourism, and cross-cultural interactions.
- Future Prospects: Speculate on the future prospects of the Hazara Express, discussing potential expansion plans, infrastructure upgrades, and initiatives aimed at further enhancing its efficiency, safety, and reliability.
- Comparative Analysis: Conduct a comparative analysis of the Hazara Express with other railway systems regionally or globally, identifying similarities, differences, and lessons that can be learned from comparative contexts.
- Heritage Preservation: Explore efforts to preserve the heritage and historical significance of the Hazara Express, including initiatives to restore vintage trains, railway stations, and other cultural artifacts associated with its legacy.
- Community Empowerment: Investigate initiatives aimed at empowering local communities through the Hazara Express, such as vocational training programs, job creation initiatives, and community development projects supported by railway authorities or associated organizations.
