Safety concerns rise for commuters on metro buses

Police report highlights frequent thefts and pickpocketing incidents

RAWALPINDI:

The metro bus service connecting Rawalpindi and Islamabad faced significant safety concerns in 2024, with 71 theft incidents reported in the Rawalpindi section alone.

According to statistics, police investigations led to the recovery of Rs143,000 in cash and mobile phones.

19 individuals were arrested, including two women during the year, police data revealed.

The Rawalpindi section, covering ten stations from Saddar to Faizabad, witnessed frequent thefts and pickpocketing incidents, affecting passengers of all ages, including men, women, and the elderly.

Police records also revealed that Sadiqabad police station registered 24 cases, New Town police station recorded 21, Waris Khan police station handled 10, Civil Lines police station dealt with 8, Cantonment police station registered 7, and City police station reported 1 case.

Despite the presence of CCTV cameras on buses and at stations, the stolen items, primarily mobile phones, cash, and jewellery, were valued at over Rs0.65 million.

In a tragic incident highlighting safety lapses, a four-year-old boy named Rehan lost his life in November 2024.

The child, while disembarking with his mother at Liaquat Bagh Metro Station, fell through a gap between the bus and the platform.

His foot became trapped, and as the bus moved forward, he fell onto the track and was fatally struck.

A case was registered at Waris Khan Police Station against the bus driver and station staff, who were subsequently arrested.

The Metro Bus Authority, which relies on a private security company for maintaining security at stations, on buses, and along the tracks, has come under criticism for failing to prevent such incidents.

Despite repeated inquiries, the authority did not provide an official statement at the time this report was filed.

Passengers are increasingly concerned about their safety and have called on the authorities to address these issues by enhancing security measures and operational oversight to ensure the metro bus service is a safe and reliable mode of transport.