Authorities have announced an increase in the fare of the metro bus service operating in Lahore, Multan, and Rawalpindi. The decision was taken after growing pressure on the government subsidy used to run the mass transit system.

Officials said that the continuous rise in petroleum product prices has significantly increased operational costs. As a result, the government had to review the existing fare structure to keep the metro bus system running smoothly.

Previously, passengers were paying Rs30 per ride on the metro bus. However, after the latest decision, the fare has been increased by Rs10. This means the new ticket price will now be Rs40 for commuters travelling on the metro bus routes.

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According to the transit authority, the revised fare will be implemented from March 26, 2026. The new fare will apply to metro bus systems operating in Lahore, Rawalpindi-Islamabad, and Multan.

However, authorities have also announced some relief for regular passengers. The Punjab Mass Transit Authority clarified that travellers using the “T-cash card” will receive a subsidy under a new scheme.

Passengers with the T-cash card will be able to buy a metro bus ticket for Rs25 instead of the full fare of Rs40. This means card holders will receive a discount of Rs15 on each ride, making daily travel slightly more affordable for regular commuters.

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The government hopes that the revised fare structure will help manage rising operational costs while still providing some relief to frequent metro bus users.

The fare hike shows how rising fuel prices are affecting public transport systems. Authorities are trying to balance higher costs with limited subsidies. The discount for card holders may encourage more passengers to use digital travel cards.