Hattian Bala / Jhellum Valley: (Azadi Times) Despite the recent reduction in diesel prices, the transport mafia in the Jhelum Valley continues to charge exorbitant fares, leaving the poor and vulnerable at a disadvantage.
Passengers have been forced to sleep on the streets or in overcrowded buses as they cannot afford the high fares.
The administration has so far failed to take any action against the transport mafia, leaving the people of the valley at the mercy of these unscrupulous elements.
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On June 1, 2023, the government of Pakistan reduced the price of diesel by Rs. 30 per liter. However, the transport mafia in Jhelum Valley has refused to reduce fares.
As a result, passengers are being forced to pay up to Rs. 50 more than the previous fare for a one-way journey.
The situation is particularly difficult for the poor and vulnerable, who often rely on public transport to get around.
Many people have been forced to sleep on the streets or in overcrowded buses as they cannot afford the high fares.
The administration has so far failed to take any action against the transport mafia.
In a recent statement, the Deputy Commissioner of Jhelum Valley, Sohail Warraich, said that the administration is aware of the issue and is working to resolve it.
However, he did not provide any specific details about what measures the administration is taking.
Also Read: A Brief History Of Hattian Bala Azad Kashmir
The people of Jhelum Valley are demanding that the administration take strong action against the transport mafia and ensure that they are not exploited.
They are also calling for the government to provide subsidies for public transport so that the poor and vulnerable can afford to travel.
The situation in Jhelum Valley is a reminder of the need for strong regulation of the transport sector.
The government must take steps to ensure that the transport mafia is not allowed to exploit passengers.
The people of Jhelum Valley deserve to be able to travel safely and affordably.
