The cost of public transport in Peshawar has surged as the city’s Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system implemented a significant fare hike, making daily travel more expensive for residents.
According to the updated fare structure, passengers traveling up to 5 kilometers will now be charged Rs30, a jump from the previous Rs20. For longer journeys spanning up to 40 kilometers, the fare has risen from Rs60 to Rs70. Additionally, a single-ride ticket is now priced at Rs70, with an added Rs10 for each stop along the route.
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The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Urban Mobility Authority issued a formal notification about the revised fares on June 16, citing inflation and increased operational expenses as the main reasons behind the move. However, the fare adjustment has drawn sharp criticism from the public, especially from regular commuters who feel the price hike goes against the original goal of offering affordable urban transportation.
Many passengers expressed frustration, pointing out that the fare increase will disproportionately affect low-income individuals who rely on the BRT for their daily commutes.
The fare revision comes during a time when the country is grappling with a broader cost-of-living crisis, with rising prices on fuel, utilities, and essential goods continuing to strain household budgets.
