Peshawar BRT Fare Hike Sparks Financial Concerns

The fares for the Peshawar Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system are set to rise, with a proposed increase of Rs5 per stop. This adjustment would see the base fare go up from Rs15 to Rs20, while the maximum fare for the entire BRT route is expected to climb from Rs55 to Rs60. The rationale behind this fare hike is linked to the recent escalation in electricity prices, as stated by a spokesperson.

Earlier indications from Muzzammil Aslam, the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa adviser to the chief minister on finance, hinted at a potential fare increase. The provincial government is planning to reduce the subsidy for the Peshawar BRT from Rs6 billion to Rs3 billion. This reduction aims to generate savings of Rs2 billion through cost-cutting measures and an additional Rs1 billion by raising bus fares by Rs5 to Rs10.

Aslam also mentioned the possibility of fares reaching Rs80 per person if the bus service were to be privatized. Collaborative efforts between the provincial and federal governments are underway to tackle financial challenges in the region.

In a recent development, an accountability court in Peshawar granted a request by the National Accountability Bureau (NAB) to freeze 17 bank accounts belonging to two contractors involved in an alleged corruption case related to the BRT project. The court further instructed the anti-corruption body to seal the contractors' residential plots. Last year, reports surfaced indicating that the BRT faced potential closure due to the provincial government's failure to settle approximately Rs1 billion in dues to five private companies managing different segments of the public transport system.

The proposed fare increase for the Peshawar BRT system reflects the ongoing financial challenges and efforts to streamline operations. As stakeholders navigate these complexities, the focus remains on ensuring sustainable and efficient public transportation services for the residents of Peshawar.