Manan Mandokhail:
QUETTA: The green bus service in Quetta, the capital of Balochistan Province, has remained suspended for more than a week, leaving thousands of citizens, especially those from the middle and lower-income groups, in distress.
The sudden and unannounced suspension has sparked frustration among daily commuters who relied on the affordable and decent public transport service for their daily travels. No official statement has been issued by the provincial government so far, deepening concerns among the public.
Sources suggest that security threats may be the reason behind the halt in service, though there is no official confirmation yet. The disruption has led to overcrowding in rickshaws and other private transport modes, affecting students, workers, and the elderly.
“I used to travel to Sariab Road for work every morning, but now I spend double on rickshaw fares,” said Shahnaz Bibi, a domestic worker.
“This service was a blessing for people like us. The government should at least inform us why it stopped,” said Mohammad Asif, a shopkeeper.
“Students are the worst hit. Many of us are late to class every day now,” said Hina Jamali, a university student.
Citizens have urged the government to restore the bus service.
