The Punjab provincial government has announced the termination of its free public transportation program, effective immediately. Launched in 2022, the initiative aimed to provide cost-free travel for citizens across the province, particularly benefiting students and working women. Officials cite unsustainable financial burdens as the primary reason for the service’s discontinuation. The government states it spent billions of rupees maintaining the program, resources now needed for other developmental projects. While the free service ends, authorities are exploring alternative, potentially subsidized, fare structures. The decision has drawn criticism from opposition parties and some citizens who relied on the free transport, raising concerns about accessibility for low-income individuals. Further details regarding the new fare system are expected to be announced shortly.