Abdul Ghani

A bill has been tabled in the Senate, proposing the creation of a dedicated Capital Mass Transit Wing under the Capital Development Authority (CDA) to regulate, supervise, and manage all public transport operations in the Islamabad Capital Territory (ICT), reports Wealth Pakistan.

Under the Islamabad Metro Bus Service Bill, introduced by Senator Sarmad Ali, the CDA would be empowered to formulate fare and licensing policies, oversee daily transit operations, ensure safety and service standards, and supervise infrastructure development and maintenance related to public transport services.

The bill further emphasizes inter-provincial coordination to ensure seamless route integration and passenger connectivity between Islamabad and adjoining regions. To enhance long-term financial sustainability, the bill encourages non-fare revenue generation through commercial use of transit assets, advertising rights, and public-private partnerships. This approach aims to reduce dependence on direct fare collection and diversify revenue streams for the mass transit system.

A significant feature of the proposed legislation is the provision of concessionary or free travel for children under 12 years of age, students, senior citizens, and persons with disabilities, who are estimated to comprise approximately 35% of ridership. To cover the resulting revenue gap, the bill proposes an estimated annual federal subsidy of Rs1.2-1.5 billion.

The bill underscores that federal backing will be essential to maintain subsidized travel services for these vulnerable categories without compromising operational efficiency.

In conclusion, the proposed legislative framework seeks to provide a comprehensive institutional, regulatory, and financial structure aimed at ensuring efficient governance, commuter-oriented services, and sustainable mass transit operations in the Islamabad Capital Territory.

Credit: INP-WealthPk