LAHORE: Clarifying the impression appearing in the media regarding a change in the ticket checking system in Pakistan Railways, Pakistan Railways Police have stated that no change has been made in the existing ticket checking system.

The Railways Police have clarified that it is neither independently nor unilaterally taking action against ticketless passengers. Rather, it is playing its role in preventing ticketless travel in coordination with the Pakistan Railways Commercial Branch, Travelling Ticket Examiner (TTE) staff, ticket checkers, station masters and other concerned authorities.

The police have constituted special teams in coordination with the Pakistan Railways Commercial staff to help prevent ticketless travel. These teams have been formally directed to perform their duties in accordance with the relevant standard operating procedures (SOPs).

According to the SOP, the special teams of Railways Police will assist the commercial branch, ticket checkers, station masters and TTE staff in the process of ticket checking and enforcement at trains and railway stations.

In this regard, the SRPs of the respective divisions have briefed the Inspector General, Pakistan Railways Police, clarifying that Railway Police are ensuring the checking of ticketless passengers in coordination with the commercial staff.

The special teams have been directed to assist the concerned commercial staff in identifying passengers travelling without tickets or with invalid/unauthorized tickets and to ensure action in accordance with the law and departmental instructions.

Under the SOP, checking will be carried out at railway stations, platforms and, where required, during train journeys, with special focus on stations and trains where a higher number of complaints regarding ticketless travel have been received.

The concerned teams have also been directed to continue joint and surprise checking at identified trains and stations. Proper records of actions taken against ticketless travel will also be maintained.

According to Pakistan Railways Police, personnel have been clearly instructed to maintain a courteous, professional and impartial attitude towards passengers during checking. Harassment, unlawful detention, misbehaviour and misuse of authority will not be tolerated.

Under the SOP, in case of resistance to or interference with official duties, action will be taken in accordance with the law. In the event of any serious incident, misconduct or an organized attempt to travel without a ticket, the concerned officers will be informed immediately.

Railways Police have reiterated that all measures are being taken to prevent ticketless travel will be carried out in accordance with the relevant laws of Pakistan Railways, departmental instructions and the issued SOP.

The purpose of constituting the special teams is to ensure effective coordination with Pakistan Railways Commercial staff, reduce ticketless travel, safeguard railway revenue, and facilitate an organized and orderly travel environment for passengers.

Copyright Business Recorder, 2026