Sharjeel continues crackdown on overcharging of transport fares

Sindh Senior Minister and Provincial Minister for Transport, Mass Transit, and Excise and Taxation, Sharjeel Inam Memon has taken a resolute stand against the pervasive issue of overcharging fares in the transport sector, said a statement released on Sunday.

The Provincial Transport Authority (PTA), Regional Transport Authority (RTA), and District Regional Transport Authorities (DRTAs) conducted inspections on inter-city and inter-provincial passenger vehicles.

The crackdown is being conducted by the RTA officers in collaboration with traffic police, district police, and motorway police.

A total of 1,012 vehicles have undergone scrutiny thus far, revealing that an excess amount of Rs2,285,000 had been unlawfully extorted from passengers, which was promptly refunded on the spot.

Transporters found guilty of engaging in the exploitative practice were charged a fine of Rs732,000.

"The aim is to eliminate the problems and difficulties faced by passengers," said Memon.

Read Intercity transporters raise fares ahead of Eid

He warned, "Strict action will be taken against those who try to take advantage of the compulsion of passengers.Those who do injustice to passengers will not be forgiven."

Memon urged transporters to adhere to ethical standards and prioritize the comfort and safety of passengers above all else.

On March 28, Memon chaired a high-level meeting of the transport department and discussed projects aimed at improving inter-city commutes.

The meeting focused on multiple projects including the Orange Line and Green Line that will be soon connected by a shuttle service to Tower right after Eidul Fitr.

The minister shared the Sindh government’s plan to start inter-city bus service with an initial 500 buses purchased for the convenience of the people under the inter-district transport project.

Amidst rising petroleum prices, transport terminal proprietors throughout the district have hiked fares across all routes by Rs100 to Rs300 in light of the approaching Eid ul Fitr festivities.

Additionally, local route tariffs have seen increments ranging from Rs5 to Rs10.