Punjab ends free transport facility, fares restored on Orange Line and Speedo buses

LAHORE – The Punjab government has ended the temporary free public transport facility which was announced earlier this year as part of relief package after petroleum prices saw a massive increase due to the US-Israel war against Iran. Officials said the passengers will now require to pay fare starting tomorrow (13 June 2026.) According to officials, fares will once again be charged on major public transport services including the Orange Line Train, Lahore Metro Bus, and Speedo Bus service. Authorities said the free transport arrangement was introduced on a temporary basis due to rising petroleum product prices. However, the facility has now been withdrawn and normal fare operations are being restored. With the new decision, passengers using public transport services across Punjab will once again be required to pay regular fares starting from the next operational day. In early April this year, the Punjab government had announced free public transport services across all cities. Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif, while unveiling the relief package, said that financial assistance would also be provided to protect agriculture, food, and farmers.