In a significant update for Peshawar’s public transit users, TransPeshawar has announced a fare hike for the Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system, effective July 1, 2025. The updated fare plan was finalized during a session of the company’s Board of Governors, marking the first fare revision in several years.

Under the new structure, the per-stop fare will increase by Rs10. A ride covering a distance of 5 kilometres will now cost Rs30, a 50% rise from the previous Rs20 fare. For longer journeys up to 40 kilometres, passengers will be charged Rs70, compared to the earlier rate of Rs60.

In addition, single-use tickets will also reflect this hike, increasing by Rs10 from Rs60 to Rs70.

TransPeshawar officials defended the decision, stating that rising fuel costs, inflation, and operational demands necessitated the revision. They also assured passengers that service standards would be maintained, and further investments would be made in fleet expansion and digital ticketing solutions.

Background: BRT Peshawar Under Scrutiny

The fare hike comes at a time when the BRT Peshawar project is still under a regulatory microscope. Earlier in 2024, the National Accountability Bureau (NAB) reported the recovery of Rs168.5 billion linked to corruption and financial mismanagement within the project.

NAB launched its investigation in 2018, responding to allegations of illegal contracts and misuse of funds. Six core contracts were found to have been awarded improperly to selected companies, several of which later violated their agreements.

The case even reached the International Court of Arbitration, where claims worth Rs31.5 billion from contractors were rejected. NAB also uncovered evidence of financial malpractice by examining over 400 bank accounts associated with the project.

Despite its troubled beginnings, BRT Peshawar continues to serve as a key transport option for thousands of daily commuters. The fare adjustments aim to balance financial sustainability with commuter needs.