Transport fares drop after fuel cuts

RAWALPINDI:

Following a reduction of Rs135 in diesel prices announced by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, fares for goods transport and public transport in the open market have also declined.

However, these fares have yet to return to pre–fuel crisis levels, with an overall increase of 40 per cent still persisting, despite a cumulative reduction of around 60 per cent.

Within the twin cities and surrounding areas, stop-to-stop fares have dropped from Rs60 to Rs40. Meanwhile, freight charges for goods transport via container trailers from Karachi have decreased from Rs800,000 to Rs600,000. Prior to the petrol and diesel crisis, the same route—from Karachi to Rawalpindi—cost approximately Rs300,000.

Transport operators in the twin cities have also implemented an immediate 30 per cent reduction in fares, offering much-needed relief to citizens, passengers, and the business community.

In addition, pick-and-drop charges for students and working women have been reduced by 20 per cent following the decline in fuel prices.

The decrease in transportation costs has begun to impact the prices of vegetables, fruits, food items, and essential commodities, which are now showing signs of reduction.

Parents have also confirmed a 10 per cent reduction in school pick-and-drop charges.

Free travel on green bus services also continues for the time being.