The government of Punjab has decided to end the free metro bus service in the province.
The Punjab government is considering a major policy shift regarding its free public transport programme.
According to reports, the provincial government is evaluating whether the free travel scheme should remain in place under changing economic conditions and fluctuating fuel costs. A final decision is expected after consultations scheduled for next week.
During a briefing to the Punjab Chief Minister (CM), Maryam Nawaz Sharif, officials from the Transport Department reportedly informed the provincial members attending the meeting that the free travel facility could be discontinued if petrol prices rise to Rs300 per litre.
Sources said authorities are also examining a proposal not to extend the free transport programme beyond its current period in several cities, including Lahore.
Officials stated that the review is being carried out in light of government expenditure, prevailing economic conditions and continued volatility in fuel prices.
According to official data, more than 70 million passengers have benefited from the free travel facility across Punjab over the past two months.
The initiative was introduced to provide relief to commuters during a period of rising inflation and increasing fuel costs.
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The scheme currently covers a range of public transport services, including Metro Bus, Orange Line Train, electric buses and the Speedo bus network, which are used daily by millions of residents.
Government officials said various options were being considered to balance public relief measures with fiscal sustainability. They added that the future of the programme would be decided after a detailed review of economic indicators and available financial resources.
The free travel initiative has been widely viewed as one of the Punjab government’s flagship public transport relief measures, and any decision regarding its continuation is likely to be closely watched by commuters across the province.
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