The latest transport fare hike in Lahore has added more pressure on commuters after fuel prices increased again across Pakistan.
Public transport operators have raised fares for buses, wagons, and mini Mazda services following the recent jump in petrol and diesel rates. Reports indicate that passenger transport fares increased by around 5%, while some goods transport and mini Mazda fares saw a rise of up to 10%.
Many commuters complained about higher charges and said transporters started collecting increased fares before any official approval from the authorities. Citizens urged the government to step in, saying inflation and rising fuel costs were already making daily life difficult.
The Punjab Transport Department and the Regional Transport Authority (RTA) have not yet announced revised official fare rates. However, the Punjab government has taken notice of the unauthorised increase and directed local administrations to ensure transporters follow approved fare structures.
RTA Lahore Secretary Rana Mohsin said officials had called a meeting with transport representatives to discuss the issue. He added that the government would make the final decision on any official fare adjustment after consultations.
The increase in transport fares came shortly after the federal government raised petroleum prices again. Petrol prices increased by Rs14.92 per litre, while high-speed diesel went up by Rs15 per litre.
The latest fuel revision pushed petrol prices above Rs. 414 per litre, increasing concerns about inflation and higher living costs. Transport fares directly affect office workers, students, and daily wage earners who rely on public transport every day.
Experts believe continuous fuel price increases could further impact food prices, delivery charges, and other essential services in the coming weeks.
