Karachi, the bustling city by the sea, is facing a significant change for daily commuters as the Peoples Bus Service has announced a fare hike of up to 60%. This new fare structure will take effect from February 1, 2025, leaving many passengers concerned about the extra cost they will now need to pay for their daily travel.
Currently, the minimum fare for the Peoples Bus Service is Rs50, and depending on the distance traveled, it can go as high as Rs100. With the fare hike, passengers will now have to pay more to reach their destinations, whether it’s for work, school, or other daily activities. The revised fares, ranging from a 20% to 60% increase, have already been displayed on the buses, making it clear to passengers about the upcoming changes.
This move comes at a time when public transport has been an essential lifeline for thousands of Karachi residents. For many, the Peoples Bus Service is the primary means of getting around the city. The fare increase will certainly be a burden for daily commuters who rely on the service to travel to offices, schools, and other important locations.
In addition to the fare hike, the Sindh Transport Department had introduced new bus routes in July 2024 to improve the public transport system. New routes such as the Hawks Bay to Tower route and extended services like route number 12, connecting Quaidabad, Korangi, and Memon Goth to Tower, were launched. The new EV 4 route now connects Bahria Town to Numaish, making it easier for residents in different parts of the city to travel to key areas.
Despite the efforts to expand the service and make transport more accessible, the price hike is raising concerns among commuters. Many worry that this increase will make daily travel unaffordable, particularly for those who are already struggling with high living costs.
The Peoples Bus Service, which was inaugurated in June 2022 by PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, was introduced to improve the transport system in Karachi, offering a more convenient and reliable option for daily travelers. While the fare hike may be necessary for the service to continue operating, it is essential for the government and transport authorities to consider the financial burden it places on passengers.
As the fare increase takes effect in just a few days, Karachi residents will have to adjust to the new cost of public transportation. While some may find alternative ways to commute, for others, the Peoples Bus Service remains the most affordable option despite the rising fares.
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