Peshawar’s Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system, a cornerstone of the city’s public transportation, has seen a fare increase that will affect all passengers. The authorities have raised the ticket prices by Rs5 per stop, setting the new minimum fare at Rs20 and the maximum fare at Rs60. This fare adjustment aims to cope with the rising operational costs and to maintain the quality of services provided by the BRT system.

The decision to hike the fares comes at a time when the city’s public transportation system is striving to balance operational sustainability with affordable services for its passengers. The BRT system, which has been a significant development in Peshawar’s urban planning, provides a vital link for thousands of daily commuters, offering a faster and more efficient alternative to traditional buses and other forms of public transport.

In a bid to cushion the impact on vulnerable segments of the population, the authorities have introduced a 50% discount for citizens aged 60 and above. Senior citizens can avail of this discount by using special cards issued specifically for this purpose. This initiative underscores the government’s commitment to supporting the elderly, ensuring they have access to affordable transportation.

Additionally, the fare policy includes provisions for children under 5 years old, who can ride the BRT system for free when accompanied by their parents. This family-friendly measure is designed to make public transportation more accessible and affordable for families with young children, promoting greater use of the BRT system among all age groups.

Meanwhile, Pakistan Railways has also announced a fare increase, citing the rise in petroleum prices as the primary reason. The new fare structure includes a 1% hike across all classes of passenger trains, including economy, AC standard, AC business, and AC parlor. This change affects a wide range of train services, from mail and express trains to intercity services operated under public-private partnerships.

According to a recent notification from the Railways Department, the fare adjustment will come into effect from Friday, July 19. Divisional superintendents have been instructed to update the fare tables accordingly, ensuring all passengers are informed of the new rates. This fare hike reflects the broader economic adjustments impacting various sectors, as fuel costs continue to rise.

Both the BRT and Pakistan Railways fare increases highlight the ongoing challenges faced by public transportation systems in managing operational costs while striving to provide affordable and reliable services to the public. The measures taken by the KP government and Pakistan Railways aim to ensure the continued functionality and sustainability of these essential services, despite the economic pressures.