Punjab government orders immediate fare reduction to pass on petroleum price relief to commuters across Rawalpindi.
Public transport fares in Rawalpindi have been reduced by 12% to 18% following the recent decline in petroleum prices, providing relief to commuters across the district. The revised fare structure has been implemented on the directives of Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif.
The district administration, in coordination with the Regional Transport Authority (RTA), has issued updated fare lists with immediate effect.
According to RTA officials, transport fares were reassessed at the tehsil level to ensure that the benefit of lower fuel prices is passed on directly to passengers.
Under the revised rates, fares for air-conditioned diesel-powered transport services have been reduced by 12%.
Meanwhile, non-air-conditioned diesel vehicles and petrol-operated public transport have witnessed a 15% decrease in fares. Goods transport charges have been lowered by 18%, offering additional relief to businesses and consumers.
Authorities stated that a comprehensive monitoring campaign has been launched to ensure transport operators comply with the new fare structure.
Special inspection teams have been deployed at bus terminals, wagon stands and along major transport routes to prevent overcharging.
During the ongoing enforcement drive, officials inspected 464 vehicles and found several operators violating the revised fare regulations. A total of 86 vehicles were fined, while penalties amounting to Rs280,000 were imposed on transporters for overcharging and other violations.
The district administration warned transport operators that strict legal action would be taken against anyone charging passengers above the approved rates. Officials said violators could face hefty fines and even vehicle impoundment.
Authorities added that daily inspections would continue across Rawalpindi to ensure full compliance with the revised fares and to provide maximum relief to commuters in the wake of lower fuel prices.
