2 weeks Ago By NEWS WIRE
The Sindh government’s Peoples’ Bus Service (PBS)—commonly known as the “Red Bus”—has been a welcome relief for Karachi’s citizens since its launch in June 2022. With a capacity of 32 seats (22 for men, 8 for women, and 2 for persons with disabilities), these air-conditioned buses provide a much-needed alternative to the city’s unreliable public transport system. Initially, the one-way fare for PBS buses was set at Rs.
50. However, last month, the fare was abruptly increased to Rs. 80 and Rs.
120—a staggering 140% hike. This sharp increase has placed a significant financial burden on low-income commuters, leading to widespread frustration and discontent. It is worth noting that in Lahore, the one-way fare for the Metro Bus System—managed by the Punjab Mass Transit Authority (PMA)—remains Rs.
30. The PMA also operates metro services in Rawalpindi and Islamabad, with even lower fares on feeder routes. Despite the growing demand for PBS buses in Karachi, the number of vehicles remains insufficient.
Passengers endure long waiting times, and overcrowding is a persistent issue. Furthermore, some buses bypass designated stops, especially those under bridges, causing inconvenience to commuters. To improve PBS services, the government should increase the number of buses on each route, extend operating hours to midnight, and clearly display route information—including major bus stops—on both the front and back of the vehicles.
It is also essential for the Sindh government to reconsider the recent fare hikes in light of the financial difficulties faced by thousands of daily commuters. A concerned citizen, ISRAR AYOUBI, Karachi.
