The Punjab government has announced strict enforcement measures against transporters involved in overcharging passengers during the Eid ul Azha travel season, following special directives issued by Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif.
Chairing a high-level meeting on Eid travel arrangements, the chief minister ordered a province-wide crackdown on overcharging, overloading, and unsafe transport practices to facilitate safe and affordable travel for citizens during the holiday rush.
She directed all deputy commissioners and district police officers across Punjab to intensify inspections at bus terminals, wagon stands, and major transport routes, warning that negligence in implementing transport regulations would not be tolerated.
Under the directives, transporters charging fares higher than officially approved rates will face immediate legal action. Authorities have also been instructed to ensure that official fare lists are clearly displayed inside public transport vehicles and at bus terminals to protect passengers from exploitation.
The chief minister further ordered strict action against repeat violators, including suspension or cancellation of transport permits and terminal licenses. Vehicles operating without valid fitness certificates or carrying passengers beyond capacity will also be removed from service.
In addition, Maryam Nawaz Sharif emphasized improving passenger facilities at bus stands, including the provision of clean drinking water and better arrangements for travelers during the extreme summer heat.
Meanwhile, the Punjab Transport Department has activated its complaint helpline, 1071, enabling citizens to report overcharging, overcrowding, and poor transport conditions for immediate action against violators.
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