‘Expensive Fuel, Affordable Relief’: Punjab CM’s free transport initiative wins public praise

• Minister Bilal Akbar Khan directs transport authorities to address operational issues promptly

• CM greets and praises Christian community, highlights Minority Card with Rs10,500 quarterly support to 100,000 families

• Stresses love, peace, tolerance, and global reflection on Kashmir, Gaza on International Day of Conscience

 LAHORE: On the directions of Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz, Provincial Transport Minister Bilal Akbar Khan on Sunday visited several metro bus stations to review the implementation of free public transport facilities, introduced to provide relief from rising fuel prices. During the visit, he inspected passenger amenities and interacted with commuters to gather feedback on the initiative.

Passengers expressed satisfaction with the facility and commended CM Maryam Nawaz for her timely relief measures. Many also requested the addition of more buses to meet growing demand. Bilal Akbar Khan expressed satisfaction with the initiative’s implementation and directed transport authorities to promptly address any issues faced by commuters on the ground.

He remarked that the Chief Minister’s decision to provide free travel has “won the hearts of the public” and demonstrates her continued commitment as a people-centric leader. He noted an extraordinary rush on public transport systems, including the Lahore Metrobus, Speedo Bus Service, Lahore Orange Line Metro Train, and Green Electric Buses, as citizens increasingly opt for public transport over private vehicles.

The initiative, particularly the green electric bus project, is playing a significant role in providing comfortable and free travel to millions across Punjab, offering much-needed relief amid high fuel costs.

 CM Punjab Extends Easter Greetings to Christian Community

In a related development, Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz on Sunday extended heartfelt greetings and best wishes to the Christian community on Easter. She said the government and people of Punjab equally share in their celebrations, describing the community as peaceful and highly respected citizens of Pakistan.

CM Maryam Nawaz acknowledged the Christian community’s invaluable contributions to the creation and development of Pakistan, highlighting their patriotism and dedication. She recalled the vision of Muhammad Ali Jinnah, who advocated equality for all citizens regardless of religion or ethnicity, and urged that Easter serve as a reminder to promote love, harmony, and unity.

She also highlighted government initiatives, noting that grants for minority communities have been increased and development funds allocated for their welfare. For the first time, a Minority Card has been introduced, providing quarterly financial assistance of Rs10,500 to over 100,000 deserving minority families. Maryam Nawaz reaffirmed the government’s commitment to the inclusive development and well-being of all communities in Punjab.

 CM’s Message on International Day of Conscience

On the International Day of Conscience, CM Maryam Nawaz said the day serves as a reminder to renew commitment to values of love, peace, and tolerance, emphasizing that humanity’s survival depends on nurturing conscience worldwide.

She stressed that for lasting peace and the end of conflicts, every nation must heed the voice of conscience. Referring to the UN observance, she said it encourages reflection and reinforces adherence to universal principles of freedom and human rights, adding that compassion must remain central to human conscience to ensure collective welfare.

Highlighting the 2026 theme, “Conscious Decisions for a Better Future,” she stressed the importance of thoughtful and responsible choices. She noted that the Kashmir issue has challenged global conscience for over seven decades, while the suffering in Gaza offers a moment of reflection for the international community.

 CM Expresses Grief Over Multan Rickshaw Cylinder Blast

Meanwhile, Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz expressed deep sorrow over the loss of lives in a rickshaw cylinder explosion in Multan, offering heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families.

In a statement, she sought a detailed report on the incident and directed authorities to investigate thoroughly. She prayed for the speedy recovery of the injured passengers and instructed that they receive the best possible medical treatment.