Drivers protest fare reduction in Abbottabad, authorities enforce official RTA rates

ABBOTTABAD, Jun 03 (APP):A dispute over public transport fares intensified in Abbottabad on Wednesday as public transport drivers on multiple routes protested against the Regional Transport Authority’s (RTA) notified fares, while traffic authorities moved to ensure implementation of the officially approved rates.

In Qalandarabad, drivers operating from the Suzuki Stand to Bandi Dhundan and Meera Bin routes reportedly went on strike after refusing to accept the RTA’s fare notification, which fixed the fare at Rs. 30. The strike, however, was short-lived after Traffic In-Charge Jahangir Khan and Traffic Officer Muhammad Sajjad intervened and arranged alternative transport for passengers.

The officials directed transporters to strictly comply with the government-approved fare list, resulting in passengers being charged the officially notified fare. Local residents appreciated the prompt action taken by the traffic police and administration, praising the authorities for safeguarding commuters’ interests.

Meanwhile, Suzuki drivers from Mirpur, Mandian, Dehamtor, Nawan Shehr and Kakul staged a protest demonstration outside the Abbottabad Press Club against the district administration and traffic police. The protesters, led by drivers including Qaiser Khan, Syed Zulfiqar Shah, Nisar Shah and Sajjad Ahmed, demanded the restoration of CNG supply and an increase in transport fares.

The drivers argued that rising operational costs had made the existing fares unsustainable and announced that they would charge Rs. 50 for travel between Abbottabad and Mandian. They urged the authorities to review the current fare structure and address transporters’ concerns.

The developments highlight growing tensions between transport operators and regulatory authorities over fare adjustments, as officials continue efforts to enforce RTA-approved rates while drivers seek relief from increasing fuel and operating expenses.