Punjab reduces transport fares by 30 to 70 rupees following cut in petrol, diesel prices

Punjab Information Minister Azma Bukhari claimed public transport fares in Punjab have been lowered and cut down by Rs 30-70 after a massive reduction in petroleum costs by the federal government.

Punjab is considered to be the only province where this relief is being transferred to the citizens and the travelers are being compensated, she claimed, adding that petrol prices decreased due to her and her team’s strong dedication and hard work to execute the decreased fares.  

She claimed that CM Maryam Nawaz guaranteed that fare reductions are executed under all circumstances. No other province besides Punjab has minimized bus fares when petrol prices drop, she claimed.  

The minister claimed that the district administration is highly analyzing and checking fare lists at all bus terminals. Strict action is anticipated to be taken against transporters who are found charging high fares. She emphasized transporters to cooperate with the government, mentioning that Maryam Nawaz is evaluating the situation to guarantee compliance with the fare reduction. 

Read more: Punjab govt starts delivering electric and petrol bikes to students

This reduction in transport fares is very beneficial for the public because

• Firstly, by guaranteeing that fuel price reductions are passed on to the citizens, the government is anticipated to create greater trust among the public. It highlights the responsiveness to economic alteration and the administration’s dedication to addressing public concerns.  

• Secondly, lower fares are decided to deliver direct financial relief to the masses, particularly those who depend on public transportation for daily travel. This is specifically beneficial for low-income individuals who may be struggling with rising costs.  

• Thirdly, minimizing fares, highly motivates more masses to make use of public transportation, minimizing the number of private vehicles on the roads, and this is anticipated to lead to less traffic congestion and lower pollution levels, which causes climate change.  

• Fourthly, the strong evaluation and monitoring of fare compliance and strict action against violators who break the rules of not charging high fares show that the government is strongly taking its role and is serious about executing its policies effectively. This is considered to be a positive sign and this can improve all of the accountability governance and the reputation of the administration.  

• Fifthly, by emphasizing transporters to strongly cooperate with the government, this initiative is highly recommended. Moreover, it creates the pathways for more coordination in the future, and sustained efforts to improve all-inclusive public services.