ISLAMABAD: Metro bus stations in Rawalpindi and Islamabad witnessed heavy crowds at the start of the week following the introduction of free travel for a month, a move aimed at easing the impact of recent increases in petroleum prices.
Passengers formed long queues at multiple stations, with several lines reportedly stretching hundreds of metres. Metro staff were issuing free tickets after verifying national identity cards, resulting in delays and congestion at boarding points.
Commuters, including office workers and students, faced difficulties reaching their destinations on time, with women, elderly citizens, and children among those most affected. Some regular passengers holding metro cards expressed frustration at having to wait in lines despite being willing to pay for their journey.
According to the Regional Transport Authority (RTA) Secretary, nearly 300,000 passengers have availed the free metro bus service so far, including over 129,000 on Saturday alone. Free travel has also been extended to electric and green bus services, which recorded over 100,000 passengers in two days, with more than 40,000 travelling on Saturday.
The RTA noted that Rawalpindi recorded the highest number of passengers utilizing the free travel facility across Punjab. Officials have urged commuters to remain patient as authorities manage the increased demand.
