To provide ease of movement to citizens during Basant celebrations, the Punjab government has introduced a special transport plan, under which it has been decided to run hundreds of buses across the city, provide free rickshaw and cab service and abolish parking fees.
According to official sources, 199 buses of Punjab Mass Transit Authority and Punjab Transport Company will serve on various highways and routes, while 131 additional buses of Regional Transport Authority have also been added to the fleet. Thus, a total of more than 330 buses will provide travel facilities to the citizens.
The administration says that the buses will continue to operate from morning to night under a shift system so that there is no shortage of transport at any time. Jinnah Terminal Thokar, Railway Station and Green Town have been made central hubs from where buses will depart for different areas. The longest route will cover about 36 kilometers from Jinnah Terminal to BRB.
The government has also made modern travel facilities a part of the plan. Under the agreement with ride-hailing companies InDrive and Yango, free rickshaw and cab services will be provided to citizens and tourists, which will reduce the use of private vehicles and reduce traffic pressure.
According to the announcement, these special facilities will continue from February 6 to 8. Officials say that the main objective of this initiative is to provide safe, comfortable and cost-effective travel facilities to the public so that they can fully enjoy the Basant celebrations.
On the other hand, the Lahore Parking Company has also provided free parking facilities at six locations in the city, giving a big relief. Citizens will be able to park their vehicles without any additional fee, which is expected to significantly reduce disorderly parking and traffic jams on the roads.
According to transport experts, such free and organized travel facilities during major public events not only create convenience for citizens but also improve traffic management. They say that the use of public transport also promotes eco-friendly travel.
The authorities have appealed to citizens to use government transport instead of private vehicles during Basant days and ensure compliance with traffic rules.
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