Public and goods transport fares have been reduced after a sharp cut in fuel prices, with authorities moving to pass on relief to commuters and businesses.
The adjustment follows a decrease in petrol prices by 3.13 percent (Rs. 11.83 per litre) and diesel by 25.91 percent (Rs. 134.81 per litre) announced by the federal government.
Regional Transport Authority (RTA) Secretary Syed Asad Shirazi said a revised fare structure has been enforced from Saturday on the instructions of Deputy Commissioner Dr Hassan Waqar Cheema.
He said consultations were held with the Passengers Transport Union and the Goods Transport Association before finalizing the reductions to ensure implementation across the sector.
Under the new structure, fares for diesel-powered passenger transport, including air-conditioned and non-air-conditioned vehicles, have been reduced by 15 percent. Petrol-run public service vehicles will cut fares by 5 percent, while goods transport rates have been lowered by 26 percent.
Traders said the decrease in goods transport costs is expected to ease prices of essential items, though the impact may take several days to materialize. Residents said prices were raised immediately after previous fuel hikes, but reductions are not passed on with the same urgency.
