LAHORE: The Punjab government on Wednesday claimed that public transport fares in the province had been reduced up to Rs70 after cut in petroleum prices by the federal government.

Information Minister Azma Bokhari said Punjab was the only province where this relief was being passed on to the people.

She said that when petrol prices slashed, Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz and her team worked hard to implement the decreased fares. The CM ensured that fare reductions were implemented under all circumstances.

“No other province has reduced [public transport] fares after petrol prices dropped,” she said and added the district administration was actively checking fare lists at all bus terminals.

She warned those charging higher fares of strict action, adding that transport owners should cooperate with the government in the regard. She said Maryam Nawaz was monitoring the situation to ensure compliance with reduction in the fares.

Meanwhile, the chief minister ordered a crack down on overcharging in public transport.

“Full relief of the reduction in petrol prices must reach every passenger. The overcharged amount should be returned to the passengers,” she said.

She directed the provincial transport minister, commissioners, deputy commissioners and transport authority officials to remain in field for strict checking of fares being charged by transport owners.

Published in Dawn, September 19th, 2024