Unexpectedly, the Punjab Masstransit Authority (PMA) has decided to permanently end the Islamabad Express Metro Bus Service, a project that was launched just last year.
The decision to stop the service is due to financial constraints and a lack of vehicles, leaving commuters disappointed with the abrupt end to a service that promised faster and more efficient travel.
The Specifics
The Express Metro Bus Service, which only had seven stops between Saddar in Rawalpindi and the Pakistan Secretariat in Islamabad, initially received positive feedback for saving commuters at least 20 minutes compared to the traditional bus service with its 24 stops.
However, it has been revealed that out of the 68 allocated vehicles, only seven were designated for the express service. This shortage, along with financial difficulties, led to the authorities pulling the plug on the project.
Uzair Shah, the PMA General Manager Operations, emphasized the inevitable return to the regular bus service, citing the express service’s financial drain. As a result, all metro buses traveling between Rawalpindi and Islamabad will now resume stopping at all 24 bus stations.
Additionally, the temporarily closed 6th Road bus station is expected to reopen soon, pending the completion of some minor pending work.
Interestingly, there are speculations of bureaucratic obstacles surrounding the functionality of the 6th Road bus station. Furthermore, the divisional administration postponed its reopening in order to organize a ‘special function’ attended by caretaker Punjab Chief Minister Mohsin Naqvi, facing challenges in securing a suitable date for his presence in the garrison city.
The sudden discontinuation of the Express Metro Bus Service has drawn criticism from commuters who had enjoyed the time-saving benefits of the non-stop service. It also raises questions about the financial management and planning that led to the premature end of the project.
What are your thoughts on the decision? Share in the comments section.
