Metro Bus service between Islamabad and Rawalpindi remained suspended on Monday after employees staged a protest against mass layoffs. The suspension caused major travel problems for thousands of daily commuters across the twin cities.
According to reports, both male and female employees participated in the protest. Demonstrators gathered on the metro track and blocked operations while raising slogans against the termination of staff members.
Protesting workers claimed they were removed from their jobs without prior notice. They said their employment contracts were valid until 2027, but the company ended their services earlier than expected.
The workers also alleged that their salaries for the last two months had not been paid. Protesters demanded immediate payment of pending dues and restoration of their jobs.
The disruption forced passengers to seek alternative transportation during busy office hours. Many commuters faced delays while trying to reach workplaces, schools, and other destinations.
Officials said the latest issue emerged after the Metro Bus contract was awarded to a new company. The change reportedly resulted in the dismissal of the current staff working on the transport project.
Employees affected by the decision appealed to Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz for intervention. They urged the provincial government to ensure justice and protect workers from sudden unemployment.
The Islamabad-Rawalpindi Metro Bus system is one of the most important public transport services in the region. It was introduced to improve travel between the twin cities and reduce traffic congestion on major roads.
The bus network covers around 24 kilometers through a dedicated corridor. It includes 24 stations connecting key areas of Islamabad and Rawalpindi.
Important stations on the route include Pak Secretariat, Peshawar Morr, Faizabad, and Saddar Rawalpindi. The service is widely used by office workers, students, and daily passengers because of its affordable fares and fast travel times.
The suspension created long queues at bus stations as many passengers waited for updates about the restoration of services. Some commuters expressed frustration over the sudden disruption and lack of transport alternatives.
So far, authorities have not announced when normal operations will fully resume. Discussions between the company management and protesting employees are expected in the coming days.
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The situation continues to draw public attention as commuters and workers wait for a solution to the ongoing dispute.
