Public transport services have resumed after successful negotiations between Punjab government and transporters’ union on Thursday.
As per the details, the All Pakistan Public Transport Owners Federation, announced to resume its services in the province after it held successful discussion with Provincial Industries and Trade Minister, Transport Minister Jahanzeb Khichi and secretary transport at Transport House Lahore, whereas the transport union was represented by Ahmed Shehzad, Asmatullah Niazi and Malik Nadeem.
Both the parties agreed to revise the previously issued guidelines and standard operating procedure (SOPs).
According to the new guidelines, buses on the motorway will be allowed to seat one passenger per two seats without a fare discount, whereas public transport on GT Road will be allowed to attend one passenger per seat but will be subjected to a 20 per cent reduction in fare.
Transporters have also agreed to ensure the use of face masks and hand sanitizers by the bus crew, however passengers will have to bring their own face masks.
It is to be noted that Punjab government had previously allowed the resumption of public transport in the province, however, transporters had refused to offer their services citing the government guidelines and SOPs as impractical and non-feasible.
Punjab has reported a total of 17,382 confirmed coronavirus cases, with 5,112 recoveries and 297 deaths so far.
