Sindh Govt Announces Transport Subsidy, Freezes Fares Across Province

Karachi: The Government of Sindh has announced a major relief package for commuters, introducing a targeted subsidy program and freezing public transport fares across the province.

Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah made the announcement during a high-level press conference at the Chief Minister’s House, attended by provincial ministers, transport representatives, and senior officials.

Following successful negotiations with transporters, the government secured an agreement to maintain fares at their February 28, 2026 levels for both intercity and urban routes. The move aims to shield citizens, particularly low-income passengers, from rising travel costs driven by increasing global fuel prices.

Murad Ali Shah thanked transporters for supporting the government’s relief efforts despite rising operational costs, calling it a responsible step in the national interest. Representatives of the transport sector also reaffirmed their commitment, describing the decision as a collective effort to support the public during difficult economic conditions.

To offset financial losses, the provincial government will provide subsidies to transporters based on route permits. The subsidy will cover increased fuel costs and ensure uninterrupted transport services without passing the burden onto passengers. The package includes support from both the provincial and federal governments.

The chief minister revealed that over 11,000 buses operate across Sindh, and maintaining fares through subsidies will cost the provincial government approximately Rs3 to Rs4 billion. Additionally, Sindh will contribute around Rs14 billion under a broader national fuel subsidy framework, along with extra spending on targeted relief measures.

The subsidy package will also extend to goods transport vehicles to help stabilize prices of essential commodities, as well as school vans to prevent increases in student transport fees.

Initially, the government had considered making public buses free, but later opted for a fare freeze policy to benefit a larger segment of the population.

Murad Ali Shah emphasized that despite global fuel price fluctuations, fuel supply in the province remains stable due to effective government policies. He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to providing maximum relief to the public while maintaining economic stability and essential services.

At the start of the press conference, the chief minister also extended Easter greetings to the Christian community in the province.