LAHORE: Free public transport in Punjab is likely to continue for another month, while the final approval will be given by Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz in a meeting scheduled for Monday.
According to official sources, the chief minister has called a meeting to take a final decision on the extension of the facility.
The Transport Department has already sent its recommendations, suggesting that the free travel scheme be extended for one more month, and necessary preparations in this regard have been completed.
As per the proposal, free travel will continue for the Orange Line Train, Metro Bus service, Speedo Bus, and Electric Bus for another month.
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Officials said the initiative was introduced to provide relief to citizens after the recent increase in petroleum prices, and it is currently benefiting millions of commuters daily.
Around 290,000 passengers are using the Orange Line Train free of cost each day, while more than 100,000 are travelling on the Metro Bus without fare. Overall, nearly 800,000 citizens across Punjab are benefiting from the scheme daily.
The Transport Department has also recommended that the facility be phased out once fuel prices return to normal levels.
A final decision will be made in the chief minister’s meeting, after which an official announcement is expected.