Public transport options

After the metro bus project which runs through Lahore, and has markedly changed both the cityscape and the transport situation in the city, the Punjab cabinet has approved a Rs38 billion project for a similar transport scheme in three other cities of the province, Multan, Faisalabad and Rawalpindi-Islamabad. The system will go up first in Rawalpindi, with work set to start by the end of this month. As is the case in Lahore, part of the track for the buses is to be elevated, making it possible for traffic to run as per normal below this structure. Construction in Faisalabad and Multan is to begin at the end of the year. There is no doubt at all that transport is an urgent need; indeed, one of the most vital needs for the many who commute to work or to study on a daily basis. The metro buses seen running through Lahore have helped them. The extension of the metro bus project is, therefore, a welcome step, with important implications for people. But as it is set up, it is important also to learn from past mistakes and previous experiences.

In Lahore, while there has been an improvement in the running of the system since its inception, there are still glitches. Long lines of waiting passengers collect at some stops, because buses arrive sporadically. At other stations, the planned elevators were either never installed, or else do not function, making access impossible for the elderly or disabled. There is also evidence emerging of problems in maintaining buses and stops. Passenger education is a factor in this. But these problems can be overcome. At the cabinet meeting, the chief minister also promised to do everything possible to avoid major traffic disruptions during building work, and if all goes well, the new transport system should prove extremely useful. We hope that in time, it will be widened to reach more and more people across the country, who currently suffer due to a grave lack of public transport options.

Published in The Express Tribune, February 4^th,  2014.

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