Anees Takar
MARDAN: In response to mounting public outcry over sudden spikes in transportation fares, the Regional Transport Authority (RTA) in Mardan sprang into action under the directives of Commissioner Shaukat Ali Yousafzai and Provincial Secretary of Transport Ziaul Haq. Their coordinated efforts aimed to ensure fair pricing and accessibility for passengers ahead of the upcoming Eid festivities.
Secretary of the RTA, Wajid Khan, along with a Motor Vehicle Examiner and Traffic Police personnel, conducted surprise inspections at transport bases across the region. Their mission: to enforce compliance with fixed fares and clamp down on any attempts by transporters to overcharge passengers.
During their operation, a total of 63 vehicles were flagged down and inspected for fare irregularities. Eight drivers were slapped with fines totaling Rs. 21,400 for flouting fare regulations. Additionally, numerous passengers were reimbursed for the excess fares they had been unjustly charged.
The RTA left no stone unturned, scrutinizing over 140 transporters to ensure adherence to prescribed fares. Commissioner Shaukat Ali Yousafzai emphasized that stringent action would be taken against any transporter found guilty of exploiting passengers by charging exorbitant fares. Violators risk having their route permits revoked as a consequence of their transgressions.
The crackdown comes in the wake of widespread discontent among citizens, many of whom had voiced their grievances about the sudden escalation in transportation costs. One such individual, a businessman who frequently commutes between Mardan and neighboring metropolitans for his trade dealings, lamented the financial strain imposed by erratic fare hikes. He highlighted the challenges faced in sustaining his business operations amidst the financial burden caused by inflated transport expenses.
As the Eid holiday approaches, authorities remain vigilant, determined to uphold fairness and affordability in public transportation, thereby ensuring a smoother and more equitable travel experience for all passengers.
