Subway closure due to protests hits commuters hard

Rawalpindi: The suspension of Metrobus service in Rawalpindi and Islamabad due to the sit-in against electricity bills and inflation at Liaquat Bagh is causing significant inconvenience to the public. Without the affordable and reliable Metrobus, many commuters are forced to walk long distances to reach their destination. The absence of this important public transport option not only disrupts daily routines but also places an additional financial burden on individuals. Taxis, often the only alternative, charge exorbitant prices, further burdening the pockets of those already struggling with high living costs. The situation highlights the urgent need for uninterrupted public transport, especially during times of civil unrest, to ensure that daily life can continue with minimal disruption.

The Metrobus service has long been a lifeline for thousands of commuters in the Twin Cities, providing an affordable, reliable and efficient mode of transport. Since its discontinuation, daily commuting has become a logistical nightmare for many. One of the commuters, Ali Khan, lamented, “I depend on the Metrobus every day to get to work. Now I have to walk for over an hour and even then I am not sure if I will find a taxi willing to take me the rest of the way without charging a fortune. This is unsustainable.”

For many, the Metrobus is not just a convenience but a necessity. It connects far-flung parts of the Twin Cities and allows people to commute to work, school and other important locations. The disruption has forced many to rethink their daily routines: leaving earlier and coming home much later. For some, it also means less time with family and lower productivity at work due to the physical exertion and stress associated with finding alternative transportation options.

Sarah Ahmed, a software engineer, shared her frustration: “The Metrobus was my only way to get to work on time. Now I’m constantly late and exhausted. I’m often late because I couldn’t find an affordable ride. It’s affecting my work and my mental health.”

The financial impact of this suspension is also significant. For those who regularly used the Metrobus, the daily fare was a predictable and manageable expense. In contrast, taxis and ride-sharing services charge significantly higher rates. This is particularly burdensome for low-income families and individuals who are already suffering from rising inflation and utility costs.

Javed Malik, a shopkeeper, said: “I am barely making ends meet anyway. Now that the Metrobus service has been suspended, I am spending double or even triple on transportation. This is money I don’t have. The extra expenses are putting a strain on our food budget and with prices already so high, it is a real struggle.”

The suspension also has wider economic consequences. The increased transportation costs and resulting delays can impact productivity and business operations. Employees who are late or stressed by their strenuous commute may not perform at their best, impacting overall workplace efficiency. In addition, reduced foot traffic in commercial districts caused by transportation difficulties can lead to lost revenue for local businesses.

The government and relevant authorities must recognize the crucial role of public transport in maintaining the economic and social fabric of the city. Ensuring the continuity of these services is also crucial during protests. Possible solutions could include negotiating with protest organizers to keep key transport routes open or organizing alternative, temporary public transport options to accommodate such disruptions.

Activist Asad Raza stressed: “People have a right to protest, but measures must be taken to ensure that vital services such as public transport are not affected. Authorities need to plan better and consider the impact on citizens who are simply trying to carry on with their lives.”

In the longer term, efforts should be made to diversify public transport infrastructure and reduce dependence on a single mode of transport. Investments in additional bus routes, better integration with other forms of public transport and improved infrastructure could provide a buffer against such disruptions in the future.

The suspension of metro bus services in Rawalpindi and Islamabad due to the ongoing protests is causing significant inconvenience and financial burden to the population. This highlights the importance of uninterrupted public transport and the need for better emergency planning by the authorities. Public transport is not a luxury but a necessity and its absence is affecting the lives of thousands, highlighting the need for immediate and effective solutions.