Government-run bus services such as the Blue Line, Green Line, Orange Line Metro Bus, Pink Bus Service and electric buses have proven to be highly beneficial for the public in major cities of Pakistan. Offering affordable fares, comfortable travel and reliable service, these initiatives are a commendable gift from the government to the people and a positive step toward improving urban transportation.
However, a few days ago, while traveling on the Islamabad Expressway, I noticed a Green Line bus completely covered with advertisements of the private company. This sight was not only surprising but also deeply concerning.
It raises an important question: why are private company advertisements being displayed on government transport projects, especially those providing free or subsidised services? These buses are public assets funded for the convenience of citizens and their identity should remain strictly governmental, dignified and unique.
Government bus services carry their own distinct recognition and visual identity. Allowing private companies to place advertisements on them compromises their natural appearance and undermines the very purpose of public service by turning it into a commercial platform. The public expects these buses to represent government commitment to public welfare not to serve as moving billboards for private transport or ride-hailing companies.
I respectfully urge the Transport Authorities, the Chief Minister of Punjab and the Federal Government to take immediate notice of this issue and put a halt to the placement of private advertisements on government-operated bus services. If this practice is not stopped promptly, more buses may fall victim to similar commercialisation. Are government buses now to be used for advertising private transport companies as well? Such a practice should never be allowed.
Hayan Ahmed Khan
Islamabad
