Pakistan Railways has restored the Mohenjo Daro Express after a suspension of nearly six months. The service resumed on Sunday, September 20, reconnecting several important cities and towns across Sindh. The train left Rohri with six coaches and several hundred passengers.
The Mohenjo Daro Express was suspended in March 2026 because of financial losses. Earlier reports showed that the train generated around Rs70.584 million in revenue, compared with annual fuel costs of about Rs231 million. Railway officials also cited widespread ticketless travel as another reason for the losses.
Mohenjo Daro Express Resumes Service
The restored train operates between Kotri Junction and Rohri/Sukkur Junction. Its route connects Rohri, Larkana, Dadu, Sehwan Sharif and Kotri, giving passengers an affordable travel option across Sindh.
According to the reported schedule, the train leaves Kotri at 7am and reaches Rohri at 7pm. The journey takes around 12 hours, with stops at several stations along the route.
The train reached Larkana on Sunday afternoon. Local residents and campaigners welcomed the passengers, driver and railway staff at the station. Rose petals were also showered on the train crew during the welcome.
The restoration came after weeks of public pressure. Regular passengers and local residents held rallies in different parts of Sindh after the service was suspended. Campaigners said the train was an important and affordable option for people travelling between towns along the route.
Railway Minister Had Earlier Promised Restoration
Federal Minister for Railways Muhammad Hanif Abbasi had announced the restoration of the train in August. Radio Pakistan reported on August 27 that the minister expected the service to return the following month as part of efforts to improve railway services in Sindh.
An earlier report on August 22 had suggested September 15 as the planned restoration date. However, the Mohenjo Daro Express officially resumed operations on September 20.
The return of the service is also relevant for people travelling toward Mohenjo-daro, the ancient archaeological site in Sindh. Local campaigners have urged passengers to use the train regularly to help support its continued operation.
Local representatives have also called for improvements to the Larkana-Karachi railway tracks. They believe better infrastructure could help support the restoration of other passenger trains on the route.
2 Responses