In a remarkable display of efficiency, the ‘Mohsin Speed’ initiative delivered swift results by compelling transport providers to slash public transport fares within just eight hours, in response to the government’s 48-hour ultimatum.
Caretaker Chief Minister Mohsin Naqvi wasted no time in assessing the situation, making a surprise visit to the bus stand to gather valuable insights about the revised fares directly from passengers.
Passengers, clearly relieved by the reduced fares, expressed their gratitude during interactions with the CM. They highlighted that initial fares had been exorbitant, but the timely intervention led to a significant reduction. Engaging in conversation with passengers, Naqvi actively sought their feedback on the revised fares. He acknowledged that the lowered fares, aligned with the decrease in petroleum costs, were directly benefiting the passengers and affirmed his commitment to ongoing efforts aimed at providing relief to the people.
Demonstrating a collaborative approach, Provincial Ministers Amir Mir and Ibrahim Murad, alongside the commissioner, DC Lahore, and CCPO, were also present to underscore the government’s dedication to addressing public concerns and ensuring responsive governance.
Prior to this rapid fare reduction, the Punjab government had issued directives to all administrative officers on Tuesday, instructing them to reduce the prices of essential commodities and transport fares to directly pass on the benefits of the reduction in petroleum products’ prices to the citizens.
Chief Secretary Zahid Akhtar Zaman issued these instructions during a video conference with all deputy commissioners at the Civil Secretariat. The meeting meticulously reviewed the prices of food items and decided to establish a fruit and vegetable market in Rawalpindi.
The chief secretary emphasized that the direct benefits of the drop in oil prices should reach the masses. He noted that the reduction in fuel prices would naturally reduce transportation costs, and officers must ensure a substantial cut in the rates of essential items and transport fares in proportion to the decrease in petroleum prices.
Additionally, the chief secretary urged the deputy commissioners to announce the newly reduced rates of food items and transport fares after consulting all stakeholders. He stressed the importance of administrative officers working dynamically to combat profiteering and hoarding. The Special Branch and Urban Unit were designated to continue monitoring price control efforts.
This proactive and responsive approach by the government, spearheaded by the ‘Mohsin Speed’ initiative, has undoubtedly won the admiration of the public, providing much-needed relief and exemplifying the government’s dedication to its citizens.