KARACHI: In a bid to boost rural tourism and underscore the allure of locomotive travel, a comprehensive proposal for a ‘Desert Train Safari’ from Karachi to the border town of Khokhrapar in Sindh was thoroughly discussed in a meeting held at the City Railway Station on February 26, 2024.
The meeting, attended by key stakeholders including Syed Feyaz Ali Shah (Managing Director, Sindh Tourism Development Corporation), Mr. Ashfaq Tabsum (Deputy Divisional Superintendent, Pakistan Railways), and Maj. Abdul Majeed (Headquarters 18 Division), focused on various aspects of the proposed train safari.
Key Points from the Discussion:
1) Proposed Train Route:
The proposed route spans from Karachi to Khokhrapar, passing through Hyderabad, Mir Purkhas, and Chhor. This route aims to showcase the diverse landscapes and cultural richness of Sindh.
2) Train Operating Days/Time:
The train is scheduled to depart from Karachi on Saturdays at 10 AM, reaching Khokhrapar at 5 PM. The return journey from Khokhrapar will commence on Sundays at 4 PM, with an estimated arrival time in Karachi at 10 PM.
3) Frequency of Operation:
The Desert Train Safari is envisioned as a weekly affair, operating on Saturdays and Sundays, providing an ideal weekend getaway for tourists.
4) Proposed Train Composition:
Several options for the train’s composition were deliberated, including configurations with saloon, business class, standard, and dining cars. The final choice is expected to strike a balance between comfort and variety.
5) Boarding/Lodging Options at Khokhrapar:
Passengers are presented with diverse accommodation choices, including overnight stays in business class coaches, camping at the site, or temporary arrangements on the ground. This ensures flexibility to suit different preferences.
6) Route Infrastructure:
The Deputy Divisional Superintendent of Railways will conduct site visits to evaluate the proposed route’s usability, assess the availability of train coaches, and ensure essential services at stations such as restrooms, tuck shops, medical facilities, and prayer areas.
7) Product Branding:
The proposal includes the vibrant branding of train bogies with colorful images depicting popular tourist sites in Sindh, aiming to enhance the allure of the journey and promote it as a distinctive ‘Tourist Train’ experience.
8) Marketing and Sales:
Sindh Tourism Development Corporation (STDC) will take charge of marketing the Desert Train Safari, collaborating with tour operators to maximize reach and engagement.
9) Formal Recommendation:
STDC will submit a formal recommendation to the Deputy Superintendent of Railways, outlining operational details, required train bogies, additional services, and potential dates for the tourist train.
10) Test Run:
The stakeholders tentatively agreed on conducting the inaugural Desert Train Safari on Saturday, April 20, 2024, marking a significant milestone in the realization of this ambitious project.
As the wheels of innovation set in motion, the Desert Train Safari promises not just a mode of transportation but a transformative journey through the cultural and scenic tapestry of Sindh’s heartland. Stay tuned for updates as this exciting venture gains momentum.
