Transport fares in Rawalpindi have been reduced by 12% to 18% following a decrease in petroleum prices, in line with directives issued by Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif. The district administration and the Regional Transport Authority (RTA) have implemented the revised fare structure with immediate effect to provide relief to commuters.
According to officials, the new fare lists have been issued after a detailed review of transportation costs at the tehsil level. The RTA stated that the objective of the revision is to ensure that the financial benefits resulting from lower fuel prices are passed on directly to the public.
Under the revised rates, fares for air-conditioned diesel transport services have been reduced by 12%. Meanwhile, fares for non-air-conditioned diesel and petrol-operated public transport vehicles have been cut by 15%. Goods transport fares have witnessed the largest reduction, with rates lowered by 18%.
To ensure compliance with the new fare structure, authorities have introduced a strict monitoring mechanism across the district. Special inspection teams have been deployed to bus terminals, wagon stands, and key transport routes to verify that transport operators are charging passengers according to the revised rates.
Officials revealed that enforcement activities are already underway. During the ongoing inspection campaign, authorities checked 464 vehicles operating on various routes. As a result of violations, 86 vehicles were fined, with total penalties amounting to Rs280,000.
The district administration has warned transport operators against overcharging passengers and stated that strict legal action will be taken against violators. Authorities said penalties may include fines and, in serious cases, the impounding of vehicles. Officials added that daily inspections will continue to ensure full implementation of the revised fares and provide maximum relief to the public amid changing fuel prices.
Also read: Transport Fares Cut following Diesel Price Reduction
