Free ride claims fall short as Basant commuters voice frustration

LAHORE: Lahore residents who anticipated complimentary rides from ride hailing services during the Basant festivities have expressed frustration after finding that the promised initiative did not translate into reality. The Punjab government had announced that ride-hailing services would offer 60,000 free rides over three days, from February 6 to 8, as part of a wider transport plan for the festival.

In practice, commuters reported that only Metrobus and the Orange Line Metro Train were operating free of charge. Users of ride-hailing apps said they were unable to find any free-ride options, prompting criticism on social media. Several users described the initiative as misleading or poorly executed, with one noting that despite the announcements, no such facility was available on the first day. Another commuter complained that a journey normally costing Rs. 150 was charged at Rs. 450 instead.

Authorities had outlined an extensive transportation arrangement for Basant, including hundreds of feeder buses, Metrobus services, college and university buses, along with private-sector rickshaws. However, the apparent lack of coordination with ride-hailing companies has led to public dissatisfaction, undermining the government’s objective of ensuring smooth and stress-free travel during the celebrations.

The gap between official statements and on-ground experience has raised concerns about planning, oversight, and accountability, leaving many citizens skeptical about the credibility of such festival-related transport announcements.