Peshawar’s Transport Minister, Shahid Khattak, has issued a stern command that is bound to send shockwaves through the city. The order? Vacate the BRT Terminal immediately! The bustling hub that once hummed with activity is now on the verge of being deserted, as the lease agreement has expired.
The Transport Minister is leaving no room for negotiation, instructing the BRT operator to pay a whopping 50% of the outstanding dues and absolutely no further payments will be made. It’s a harsh blow for the operators who were banking on an extension, but the Minister seems resolute in his decision.
The countdown has begun, as the lease for the BRT Terminal officially came to an end in October 2022. This news might not come as a complete surprise, as prior information was relayed about the terminal’s impending vacancy. However, what is truly surprising is the urgency with which the Minister wants the terminal emptied. Swift action is expected to recover the latest fares, and arrangements are to be made promptly. There’s no time to waste!
The impact of this command extends beyond just the terminal. The dire financial implications cannot be overlooked. With no annual increase in fares after the termination of the lease, it raises concerns about the government’s ability to avoid losses and recover financially. To mitigate any potential damage to the treasury, the letter suggests a diligent audit be conducted once all the details are received.
This shocking turn of events has left the city in a state of flux, with commuters and operators alike grappling with the sudden upheaval. Only time will tell how this command will reshape the transportation landscape in Peshawar.
