Punjab government has decided to end the free travel facility on several major public transport services across the province. The decision applies to the Metro Bus, Orange Line Train, Speedo Bus, Electric Bus, and Green Bus networks.
According to the Punjab Mass Transit Authority, the free travel scheme was introduced in April 2026 as part of an inflation relief package. The initiative was designed to help citizens cope with rising living costs and transportation expenses.
The subsidy was initially announced for a period of one month. However, the government later extended the facility after reviewing its impact and receiving recommendations from relevant authorities.
Officials said the subsidy will now be withdrawn, and passengers will once again be required to pay regular fares. The new policy will take effect from June 13. Until the end of today, commuters can continue using the services without paying fares.
The decision affects hundreds of thousands of passengers who rely on public transport every day. Authorities estimate that nearly 800,000 people benefited daily from the free travel facility across Punjab’s mass transit system.
Among the various transport services, the Orange Line Train recorded the highest number of passengers. Around 290,000 commuters used the service daily during the subsidy period. Meanwhile, more than 100,000 passengers traveled through the Metro Bus network every day.
The Metro service has become one of the most important transportation options in major cities. Thousands of people use the Metro to travel to work, educational institutions, and commercial areas. The restoration of fares means regular commuters will once again need to budget for daily travel expenses.
Officials noted that the subsidy was introduced to provide temporary relief during a period of high inflation and rising fuel costs. Although petroleum prices have not decreased significantly, the government has decided to end the support measure.
The return of standard fares marks the conclusion of one of Punjab’s largest public transport relief initiatives. Authorities have advised passengers to prepare for the reinstatement of ticket charges from June 13 onward.
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With the subsidy ending, services such as the Metro Bus and Orange Line Train will continue operating under their normal fare structures while serving millions of commuters across the province each month.
