Free transport scheme eases burden of fuel price-hike: minister

LAHORE, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 5th Apr, 2026) The Punjab government’s free public transport initiative, launched on the directions of Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif to provide relief amid rising fuel prices, has been widely appreciated by commuters across the province.

Provincial Transport Minister Bilal Akbar Khan on Sunday visited various metro bus stations to review the provision of free travel facilities, inspected passenger amenities and interacted with commuters to obtain feedback.

Passengers expressed satisfaction over the initiative and lauded the chief minister for providing timely relief, while some urged the authorities to increase the number of buses in view of growing demand.

The minister expressed satisfaction over the arrangements and directed the authorities concerned to address issues faced by passengers on a priority basis.

He said the initiative reflected the government’s people-centric approach and had won public confidence.

He noted a significant increase in ridership on public transport systems, including the Lahore Metrobus, Speedo Bus Service, Orange Line Metro Train and green electric buses, as more citizens were shifting from private vehicles to public transport.

The initiative, particularly the green electric bus project, is playing an important role in providing free and comfortable travel to millions, offering relief to the masses amid high fuel costs.