The Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) service in Peshawar, originally introduced to ease public commuting, has increased its fares effective today (Tuesday), drawing strong criticism from daily passengers.

Under the new fare structure, the cost of traveling up to 5 kilometers has risen from Rs20 to Rs30.

For longer distances up to 40 kilometers, fares have gone up from Rs60 to Rs70.

The price of a single-ride ticket has also increased from Rs60 to Rs70.

Additionally, the revised rates include a Rs10 increase per stop.

The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Urban Mobility Authority had issued the fare hike notification on June 16, citing inflation as the reason behind the adjustment.

However, the public has reacted negatively to the move, arguing that the increase contradicts the core purpose of the BRT system to provide affordable transport for citizens.

Commuters have voiced their frustration, saying the hike further strains their already tight household budgets.