First Look at Pakistan Railways VIP Saloons

The public finally got a first exclusive look at Pakistan Railways’ VIP saloon coaches, once reserved for the country’s top officials.

Upon first glance, the interiors of these VIP saloons certainly make a statement. The design features plush sofas, wood-panelled walls, and a colour palette that seems to pay homage to a bygone era.

The décor, with its heavy curtains, patterned upholstery, and classic furniture, offers a nostalgic journey, almost as if you’ve stepped into a time capsule from the late 1980s or early 1990s. There’s even a touch of vintage charm in the way the television is mounted, with wires thoughtfully left in plain sight for that authentic retro feel.

Public reaction to the unveiling has been, let’s say, enthusiastic. Many have taken to social media to express their appreciation for the unique aesthetic, noting how the design manages to blend the comfort of a classic drawing room with the practicality of a government office. Some have even suggested that the saloons could double as a set for a period drama, given their commitment to preserving the look and feel of decades past.

The newly available luxury saloons, previously used by the Prime Minister, federal ministers, and senior railway officials, can now be booked by anyone for journeys on major intercity routes such as Karachi-Lahore, Lahore-Karachi, Islamabad-Lahore, and Lahore-Islamabad.

Pakistan Railways’ decision to open these saloons to the public, while keeping fares affordable, reflects a commitment to inclusivity and resourcefulness.