In a major relief effort for the residents of the federal capital, Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi has announced that all public transport in Islamabad will be free of charge for the next 30 days. This directive, issued on the instructions of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, comes as a direct response to the massive increase in petroleum prices. Starting Saturday, April 4, 2026, citizens will be able to commute on all government-operated bus services without paying any fare, helping to offset the rising cost of living.
Ministry of Interior to Bear Rs. 350 Million Expense
The Interior Minister confirmed that the federal government will fully subsidize the transport costs to ensure the public is not burdened by the recent “extraordinary” fuel price hike. The Ministry of Interior has allocated approximately Rs. 350 million to cover the operational expenses of the bus fleets for this one-month period. This initiative is part of a broader “National Relief Package” aimed at providing immediate financial cushion to students, office workers, and daily-wage laborers in the capital.
Coverage Electric Buses and Metro Feeder Routes
The free travel facility applies to the entire fleet of 160 electric buses currently operating across 21 routes in Islamabad, including the recently extended service to Rawat. Passengers using these eco-friendly buses, as well as other government-run transit services within the capital territory, will not be required to purchase tickets or use fare cards. This move is expected to significantly increase daily ridership, which the government aims to double from 125,000 to 250,000 passengers per day.
Strategic Response to the 2026 Fuel Crisis
This announcement follows a sharp increase in fuel prices, where petrol rose by over Rs. 137 per liter to a record Rs. 458.41. By making public transport free, the government is encouraging citizens to leave their private vehicles at home, thereby reducing individual fuel expenditures and helping the country manage the ongoing energy crisis. Mohsin Naqvi stated that the administration is committed to standing by the public during these “challenging global economic times.”