Punjab to Launch Pink Buses for Women in Lahore

Punjab is preparing to introduce a fleet of pink buses dedicated to serving women in Lahore, according to an announcement by Transport Minister Bilal Akbar on Friday. This upcoming service aims to offer safer, more convenient travel options for women across 16 routes in the city, with plans for one or two buses designated for women on each route.

During a recent session of the Punjab Assembly, Speaker Malik Muhammad Ahmad Khan addressed concerns about municipal tax subsidies, emphasizing that residents of Toba Tek Singh should not bear the costs of infrastructure projects in Lahore.

He argued that if the Lahore Metro project advances, it should be funded locally rather than impacting budgets from other regions.

Minister Akbar also expressed frustration over the limited recognition of local governments, calling for reforms that would empower them to take greater control over provincial matters. With substantial investments already directed toward Lahore, Akbar highlighted that development charges tied to the metro expansion could benefit local businesses.

The pink bus project is part of a broader plan, as Akbar announced intentions to establish Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) systems in Faisalabad, Sialkot, and Multan. Meanwhile, opposition member Sardar Muhammad Ali Khan called on the government to extend similar transportation solutions for women and students in Fateh Jang, stressing that accessible transport is vital for inclusive growth across cities.