Changes in train routes for Arbaeen pilgrimage

BASRA, August 29 — With the approach of the Arbaeen pilgrimage and the influx of visitors from inside and outside Iraq, the Southern Railways Directorate has announced the cancellation of daily trips to Baghdad. All Basra train lines will only be operational to the city of Karbala.

Director of the Southern Railways Region, Jawad Abduljalil, speaking to 964, stated:

There is a significant increase in demand for train travel as it is a safe and cost-effective mode of transportation. Hence, this change in destination is necessary.

Starting from today, Tuesday, trips will depart from Basra to Karbala. The first trip will depart at 2:00 p.m.

The frequency of trips will be twice daily, at 2:00 p.m. and 4:00 p.m., though departure times will be flexible based on necessity and the flow of visitors to the station.

Yesterday, two trains carrying over 1,000 Iranian visitors, who had made prior reservations, departed and arrived at the Awn Station in Karbala.

Ticket prices for the Basra-Karbala train line are as follows:

Single Seat: 7,000 Iraqi dinars
Two-Bed Compartment: 30,000 Iraqi dinars
Four-bed Compartment: 60,000 Iraqi dinars