Crackdown Against Illegal Transport Terminals Continues; Transporters Offered Relocation to the General Bus Stand
Strict Action Continues Against Transporters Charging Excessive Fares and Violating Regulations
Green Bus Service Has Made Urban Travel Easier and More Modern, Says Syed Asad Shirazi
Additional Green Bus Routes to Become Operational in Rawalpindi Soon, Says RTA Secretary
Rawalpindi (Staff Reporter): Secretary of the Regional Transport Authority (RTA), Syed Asad Shirazi, has announced that transport fares have been reduced by 12 to 18 percent following the decrease in petroleum product prices. He said that RTA enforcement teams are actively operating in the field to ensure full implementation of the revised fare structure.
Speaking during a special interview, Syed Asad Shirazi said that before and after the Pakistan-Iran tensions, the price of fuel had decreased by approximately Rs. 30 per liter. In light of this reduction, consultations were held with transport unions, resulting in a 12 percent reduction in fares for air-conditioned (AC) and diesel vehicles, while fares for non-AC vehicles were reduced by 15 to 18 percent to provide relief to the public.
He stated that action is being taken against transporters who fail to implement the reduced fares. RTA inspection teams are conducting daily checks, and vehicles found violating the approved fare structure are being fined and, where necessary, impounded to ensure that the government’s relief measures benefit commuters.
Regarding illegal transport terminals, the RTA Secretary said that a comprehensive operation against unauthorized transport stands is underway. He urged transport operators to close their illegal terminals and relocate to the official General Bus Stand, where suitable space would be provided to help organize and improve the transport system.
Syed Asad Shirazi described the Green Bus Service as one of the Punjab Chief Minister’s most successful public welfare initiatives. He said the modern buses have made urban travel easier, safer, and more comfortable for citizens. The buses are equipped with facilities including air conditioning, designated seating for women, and Wi-Fi services, meeting contemporary public transport standards.
He further informed that approximately 40 to 45 Green Buses are currently operating on various routes in Rawalpindi, while the total fleet consists of around 60 buses. Out of the city’s 10 planned Green Bus routes, services are currently operational on four routes, with the remaining six routes expected to become operational in the near future.
The RTA Secretary emphasized that indiscriminate action will continue against transporters involved in overcharging passengers, operating vehicles that fail to meet fitness standards, or committing other violations, to ensure that citizens are provided with safe, high-quality, and affordable transportation facilities.