RAWALPINDI: The Punjab Masstransit Authority (PMA) has announced the closure of the express metro bus service connecting Saddar in Rawalpindi to the Pakistan Secretariat in Islamabad due to financial constraints and limited resources. The decision has received criticism from commuters who benefited from the time-saving ‘non-stop’ service.

Launched just last year, the express metro bus service operated with only seven stops, significantly reducing travel time compared to the regular bus service, which comprises 24 stops and takes approximately 50 minutes between the two cities.

PMA General Manager Operations Uzair Shah stated that despite the initial positive response, the express service became financially unsustainable, leading to its discontinuation. Consequently, all metro buses between Rawalpindi and Islamabad will now stop at all 24 bus stations, reverting to the regular service.

Shah further mentioned that the 6th Road bus station is expected to resume operations on February 3 after minor works are completed. However, the delay in the station’s reopening is attributed to the divisional administration’s plan for a special function attended by Caretaker CM Punjab Mohsin Naqvi. Nevertheless, scheduling conflicts have hindered the inauguration plans.

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While the discontinuation of the express service may inconvenience some commuters, the resumption of the regular bus service ensures continued connectivity between Islamabad and Rawalpindi, benefiting a broader spectrum of passengers.