WHEN an international news agency declared Karachi’s public transport as the worst in the world, many passengers agreed. Approximately, six million people in the city rely on minibuses as they do not own any personal vehicle and cannot afford to use taxis and rickshaws for commute.

I am one of those who commute through these buses on a daily basis despite their terrible condition. Most of the minibuses are overcrowded. As there is a limited seating capacity in the ladies’ compartment, the women passengers are forced to stand during the journey.

Men can be seen standing in the aisle and sitting on the roof due to overloading. Moreover, the drivers drive recklessly on the roads, putting lives at risk.

These buses are not only a threat to the humans, but also to the environment as they increase air pollution.

Despite the aforementioned issues, these buses manage to get more than one route permits and the transport department makes no effort to check if they are operating on their authorised routes or not.

The authorities concerned should improve the condition of the minibuses.

Sadaf Quddus
Karachi

Published in Dawn, June 10th, 2021