KARACHI: (Anwarzeb Khan) Air travel from Karachi to Lahore has become increasingly expensive and challenging as Basant celebrations approach. Tickets on both Pakistan International Airlines and private carriers have surged, with one-way fares now exceeding PKR 68,000.
Sources say airlines are raising prices to capitalize on growing demand, with ticket costs increasing by the hour. The upcoming public holiday on February 5 has intensified the rush, forcing travelers to pay premium prices to secure a seat.
Rail travel has also been affected, as trains from Karachi to Lahore are overcrowded and tickets have become scarce. Travelers report difficulties in finding available seats, adding to the challenges of celebrating Basant in Lahore.
Authorities have not issued official guidance on managing the surge in demand, leaving passengers to compete for limited seats on both flights and trains. For many, attending Basant in Lahore this year is proving to be both costly and stressful.

