Travel between Karachi and Lahore has become significantly more expensive and difficult as Basant celebrations approach, with rising passenger demand pushing up airfares and overwhelming rail services.
Airlines have sharply increased ticket prices on the Karachi–Lahore route due to limited seat availability and strong demand. Pakistan International Airlines and private carriers raised fares as bookings surged ahead of the festivities.
One-way airfares have crossed Rs. 68,000 and continue to increase as more travelers rush to Lahore. The public holiday on February 5 has further driven demand, leaving many passengers with no option but to buy costly tickets.
Passengers say airlines are exploiting the seasonal rush and limited capacity by imposing steep fare hikes, putting travel out of reach for many families.
Pakistan Railways has failed to ease the pressure, as trains on the Karachi–Lahore route are operating at near full capacity. The shortage of tickets has forced many travelers to turn to air travel despite the inflated fares.