Soaring inflation and increased travel costs force many in Rawalpindi and Islamabad to celebrate Eid locally, leading to a drop in passenger traffic at transport terminals.
The twin cities of Rawalpindi and Islamabad are experiencing a significant decline in travel for the upcoming Eidul Azha celebrations. Rising inflation, higher transport fares, and escalating prices of sacrificial animals have compelled many residents to stay within their local areas instead of venturing to their native towns and villages. According to Haji Zahoor Arain, Patron-in-Chief of the Mutahida Transport Federation, passenger numbers during this year's Eidul Azha season are down by 40 to 45 percent compared to previous years.
Arain entire families used to travel together for traditional Eid celebrations, but now only one or two members of a household make the journey. Despite schools announcing lengthy summer vacations, there has been no noticeable increase in passenger numbers traveling back home. Due to this decline, Pakistan Railways has suspended operations of eight trains and railway stations are showing signs of desolation.
With just two days left before Eidul Azha, Arain remains uncertain about whether passenger numbers will rise. He pointed out that many people who intended to travel have already left due to the extended public holidays in the coming week. The sale and purchase of sacrificial animals have also seen a decline of 40 to 45 percent this year.
Transporters attribute the sharp increase in transport fares primarily to the sudden rise in petrol and diesel prices, which has surged by Rs50 to Rs70 per litre over recent months. They argue that even a nominal reduction of Rs5 in fuel costs does not significantly impact their operations as other expenses such as vehicle spare parts, tyres, and driver salaries have increased substantially.
Passengers are complaining about the practice of charging full-seat fares for children aged 10 years and additional charges for luggage, which they find exploitative. Commuters cite stagnant incomes and relentless inflation as factors that have severely strained household finances.
The Secretary of the Regional Transport Authority (RTA) monitoring teams will continue inspecting transport terminals until Eidul Azha to ensure fair practices. Challans and fines have already been imposed on transporters involved in overcharging and overloading passengers, aiming to maintain order during this period.
