PESHAWAR, Oct 3: The provincial government has decided to thoroughly examine the possibility of the launch of a ferry service in the province to ease traffic congestion.

The decision was made during a meeting chaired by transport minister Mian Iftikhar Hussain here on Wednesday.

The minister said the launch of ferry service was technically feasible and the countries, where the service had a big success, could be engaged for a help for the purpose. He said ferry service could also promote local tourism industry.

Mr Hussain directed the transport secretary to conduct a feasibility study for the proposed ferry service.

He also directed the transport department to initiate immediate steps for the launch of the mass transit system for Peshawar, saying residents of the capital city should be provided with a rapid, better and comfortable transport service without delay.Transport secretary Sikander Qayum told participants that ToRs of the project had been finalised and would soon be submitted to the provincial cabinet for approval.

He said he was in constant contact with the bosses of Pakistan Railways and other related institutions in this respect.

The transport secretary also highlighted progress on the proposed bus rapid transit system for Peshawar and said he himself visited Lahore to study local bus rapid transit system, which was launched with the support of the Turkish government.

He said before initiating the bus rapid transit system, a transport company would be created as was done by the Punjab government and that the said company would sign MoU with the Turkish government for supporting the system.

Mr Hussain said the 65 years old transport system in Peshawar could not be changed at once.

“It’ll definitely take time to happen. For that, everyone should have to play a role,” he said.

The minister said it was the endeavour of his government to provide quality and cheaper transport facilities to local residents and all possible steps would be taken for it.