The Pakistan Business Express train started its first official operation to the port city of Karachi from Lahore on February 3. Pakistani Prime Minister Yousuf Raza Gilani graced the launch, describing it as a significant step forward to a successful example of public-private partnership to offer modern facilities to railway passengers.

The train has been launched by the Pakistan Railways in partnership with a private company named Four Brothers, the first of its kind under the policy of public-private partnership.

The train will run between Lahore and Karachi, covering the distance in 18 hours.  - Photos by AFP