The Punjab government has approved a major public transport initiative under which 1,000 buses will be operated across different cities to provide free travel facilities to citizens.
According to officials, commuters will be able to use the transport service free of charge for one month as part of the government’s effort to reduce the burden of rising transportation costs.
Sources said the government has also approved a supplementary grant of Rs. 1.8 billion to support the hiring and operation of buses under the scheme.
Under the financial mechanism, the Finance Department will release funds on a seven-day advance basis, while payments to private transport operators will be made weekly.
Officials stated that the Punjab Transport Authority will supervise the project and maintain complete operational and payment records.
Regional Transport Authorities have also been authorized to directly hire buses for implementation of the initiative.
The project is expected to include electric buses as part of Punjab’s broader push toward cleaner and more environmentally friendly public transport systems.
According to sources, the duration of the free travel program may be extended if the initiative receives a positive public response and proves operationally successful.
The government believes the scheme will provide significant relief to commuters while encouraging greater use of public transportation in urban centers across Punjab.
