The caretaker Punjab government has rolled out a welcome relief for students – the reinstatement of free travel on Metro and Speedo Buses, along with the Orange Line Metro Train.
This decision, championed by Caretaker Punjab Chief Minister Mohsin Naqvi, extends the cost-free commuting privilege for students by an additional three months or until the onset of the summer holidays.
Caretaker Punjab Transport Minister Ibrahim Hassan Murad announced that, until the summer break, students up to Class XII, including madressah students, will enjoy complimentary rides on all Metro Buses and the Orange Line Train.
Despite a brief interruption during the recent winter holidays, millions of students have already benefited from this initiative, and the Speedo bus service will also extend the free travel facility.
School ID card mandatory for free travel
Students must carry their school or institution identity cards and wear their uniforms to access the free bus and train service, emphasizing the targeted nature of this student-friendly measure.
Approximately 30,000 students per day are expected to utilize these complimentary services, contributing to reduced fuel import bills.
This announcement follows the government’s earlier initiative, responding to escalating oil prices by offering free public transport to students last year. However, the service was temporarily halted just before the winter break and has now been reinstated to run through the summer holidays.
The extension of the free travel program reflects the government’s ongoing commitment to support young students facing financial strains during challenging times.