Rising Petrol Prices in Pakistan Lead to Soaring Transport Fares
As petrol prices continue to surge in Pakistan, public transport fares have seen significant and arbitrary increases, causing public outrage. The government’s decision to raise petrol prices has prompted public transporters to hike fares substantially, affecting commuters traveling from Lahore to other cities and within twin cities.
Fare Hikes Across Cities
The fare from Lahore to Karachi, Rawalpindi, Peshawar, and Quetta has witnessed notable increases. For instance, Lahore to Karachi fares have risen from Rs. 6,000 to Rs. 7,000, while Rawalpindi fares now stand at Rs. 2,200 from the previous Rs. 2,200. The journey from Lahore to Peshawar, which previously cost Rs. 2,500, now demands Rs. 2,750, and Lahore to Quetta fares have jumped from Rs. 4,400 to Rs. 4,650. Even the Murree route has seen fare increases, with rates climbing from Rs. 2,400 to Rs. 2,650.
Inaction of Transport Authorities
In Islamabad, the public transport fare control system has virtually become inactive, rendering the transport authority helpless in the face of soaring fuel costs. Over 15 days, Islamabad’s stop-to-stop fare escalated from Rs. 50 to Rs. 170. Fares from the railway station to Kachhari Chowk increased from Rs. 50 to Rs. 60, while the railway station to Taxila fare saw a substantial hike from Rs. 20 to Rs. 160.
Impact on Goods Transport
Goods transport fares have also experienced a surge, with an additional Rs. 200 imposed for every 10 kilometers. This increase has had a ripple effect on food prices, further straining the financial burdens on the public.
Rising Costs and Public Concern
The escalation of transport fares adds to the economic challenges faced by the public, who are already grappling with the rising cost of living. The situation has triggered concerns and frustrations among the Pakistani population.
As petrol prices continue to fluctuate, monitoring the impact on transport fares and daily life remains crucial for both the government and the public.
