Commuters in Islamabad are facing a financial shift as the Capital Development Authority (CDA) has officially rolled out fare increases across all urban bus services, including the electric feeder buses and Metro lines. This change comes as a surprising development for many who rely on public transport in the city.
Under the new fare structure, a standard charge of Rs100 will apply for journeys from stop to stop on all CDA-operated routes. This new price point affects major Metro services—the Orange, Green, and Blue Lines—as well as the electric buses that cover 17 urban routes throughout the capital. It’s a significant leap from the previous fares, which ranged from Rs50 to Rs90, depending on the service.
Take, for instance, those who regularly traverse the Orange Line, which connects major points from N-5 to the Airport. Previously, they paid Rs90, but now it’s a full Rs100. Likewise, travelers on the Green and Blue Lines will see their fares double, moving from Rs50 to Rs100. This isn’t just a slight bump; it’s a notable increase that adds to the overall cost of daily commuting.
Ironically, just weeks before this fare hike, CDA officials had assured the public there were no plans to change ticket prices. On May 24, a spokesperson declared flatly that fare adjustments were off the table. So, many commuters are understandably caught off guard as they navigate this sudden rise in travel costs.
To help soften the blow of this fare increase, the CDA has announced plans to offer discount packages for regular passengers. Soon, special travel cards aimed at students, women, and seniors will be available. These cards are designed not only to ease financial pressure but also to encourage continuous use of public transportation—a critical lifeline for many in Islamabad.
Moreover, the CDA is exploring additional strategies to bolster revenue, including advertising on public buses. This initiative aims to alleviate the growing operational costs of maintaining the public transport system, addressing fiscal pressures while keeping services running smoothly.
For those who rely on these services, adjusting to the new fare policy will require some financial recalibration. While the fare increase is undoubtedly a strain for many wallets, the CDA is committed to rolling out subsidies and discount cards shortly, with hopes of providing much-needed relief.
As commuters absorb this news, it’s essential to stay informed about the available options that might lighten the financial load. With the right resources, it’s possible to navigate this transition and continue relying on public transport without sacrificing essential needs.
