The Punjab government has decided to launch free public transport services in 17 districts to provide immediate relief to people amid rising fuel prices. The decision was made during a high-level meeting chaired by Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif in Lahore.
Pilot projects have been approved for three major cities, Gujranwala, Multan, and Sialkot, to test the scheme before expanding it further. Officials were directed to prepare a detailed framework and submit a report on per-kilometre transport fares within 24 hours.
During the meeting, Maryam Nawaz also ordered strict price control on essential items and directed authorities to prevent hoarding and profiteering. She reviewed the sanitation, drainage, and city beautification situation across Punjab and set clear deadlines for improvements in these areas.
The Chief Minister emphasised the use of digital monitoring systems to ensure cleanliness and better public facilities. She stressed that all measures should focus on improving the quality of life for common citizens.
This initiative is part of the provincial government’s broader relief package to ease the burden on people due to high inflation and fuel costs. Once fully implemented, free transport in the 17 districts is expected to benefit millions of daily commuters, students, and low-income families.
The government hopes the step will encourage more people to use public transport and reduce pressure on their monthly expenses.
