Metro suspension amid protest hits commuters hard

Rawalpindi:The suspension of the Metro Bus Service in Rawalpindi and Islamabad due to the sit-in protest against electricity bills and inflation at Liaquat Bagh is causing significant inconvenience for the public. Without the affordable and reliable metro bus, many commuters are forced to walk long distances to reach their destinations. The lack of this crucial public transport option not only disrupts daily routines but also places an additional financial burden on individuals. Taxis, often the only alternative, charge exorbitant fares, further straining the pockets of those already struggling with high costs of living. The situation highlights the urgent need for uninterrupted public transport services, especially during times of civil unrest, to ensure that daily life can continue with minimal disruption.

The Metro Bus Service has long been a lifeline for thousands of commuters in the twin cities, providing an affordable, reliable, and efficient means of transportation. With its suspension, the daily commute has turned into a logistical nightmare for many. As one commuter, Ali Khan, lamented, “I rely on the metro bus to get to work every day. Now, I have to walk for over an hour, and even then, I can’t be sure if I’ll find a taxi willing to take me the rest of the way without charging an arm and a leg. This is unsustainable.”

For many, the metro bus is not just a convenience but a necessity. It connects distant parts of the twin cities, making it possible for people to commute to work, school, and other essential places. The disruption has forced many to reconsider their daily schedules, leaving earlier and arriving home much later. For some, this also means less time with family and reduced productivity at work due to the physical strain and stress of finding alternative transport.

Sarah Ahmed, a soft ware engineer, shared her frustration, “The metro bus was my only means of getting to work on time. Now, I’m constantly late and exhausted. I often get late because I couldn’t find an affordable ride. It’s affecting my work and my mental health.”

The financial impact of this suspension is also considerable. For those who used the metro bus regularly, the daily fare was a predictable and manageable expense. In contrast, taxis and ride-hailing services demand significantly higher fees. This is particularly burdensome for low-income families and individuals who are already feeling the pinch of rising inflation and increasing utility bills.

Javed Malik, a shopkeeper, explained, “I can barely make ends meet as it is. Now, with the metro bus service down, I’m spending double or even triple on transportation. It’s money I don’t have. The extra expense is cutting into our grocery budget, and with prices already so high, it’s a real struggle.”

The suspension also has broader economic implications. The increased transportation costs and the resulting delays can affect productivity and business operations. Employees arriving late or stressed from their arduous commutes may not perform at their best, impacting overall workplace efficiency. Moreover, the reduced foot traffic in commercial areas due to transportation difficulties can lead to decreased sales for local businesses.

The government and relevant authorities must recognize the vital role of public transportation in maintaining the city’s economic and social fabric. Ensuring the continuity of such services, even amidst protests is crucial. Possible solutions could include negotiating with protest organisers to keep key transportation routes open or arranging for alternate, temporary public transport options during such disruptions.

Asad Raza, an activist, pointed out, “People have a right to protest, but there should be measures in place to ensure that essential services, like public transport, are not disrupted. The authorities need to plan better and consider the impact on everyday citizens who are just trying to go about their lives.”

In the longer term, there should be efforts to diversify the public transport infrastructure and reduce dependence on any single mode of transport. Investments in additional bus routes, better integration with other forms of public transport, and improved infrastructure could provide a buffer against such disruptions in the future.

The suspension of the Metro Bus Service in Rawalpindi and Islamabad due to the ongoing protests is causing significant inconvenience and financial strain for the public. It underscores the importance of uninterrupted public transport services and the need for better contingency planning by authorities. Public transport is not a luxury but a necessity, and its absence reverberates through the lives of thousands, highlighting the need for immediate and effective solutions.