Suspension of metro service creates problems for commuters

Rawalpindi: The commuters particularly office-goers and students faced problems early in the morning due to suspension of Metro Bus Service (MBS) in twin cities of Rawalpindi and Islamabad on Tuesday.

The city district government, Rawalpindi has suspended Metro Bus Service (MBS) till 1:00 p.m. due to security reason. The Interior Ministry also suspended mobile phone service till 1:00 p.m. in this regard.

The residents of twin cities complained of suffering due to suspension of metro bus service, especially students and government employees who use the bus service to commute from Islamabad to Rawalpindi and had to look for public transport.

“It was difficult to reach our destination as city district government, Rawalpindi without intimation suspended the service,” Shazia Murad, a working lady told ‘The News’ on Tuesday. She said that they could not run behind wagons and buses while fares of taxis were unaffordable for them.

Bashir Ahmed, a government servant said that he works at Finance Ministry. Metro Bus Service (MBS) is a blessing for people like me who can reach their offices on time. “I reached my office at about 11:20 a.m. due to suspension of service on Tuesday,” he said.

On the other hand, taking full advantage of the situation, private transporters particularly taxis looted commuters with both hands. They demanded skyrocketing rates even for a journey of some kilometers.

District Regional Transport Authority (DRTA) Secretary Khalid Yameen said that they were fully monitoring transporters. “We have taken strict action against transporters for taking advantage of the situation and charging high fares,” he claimed.