Case registered under Section 409 of Pakistan Penal Code and Motor Vehicle Ordinance
What Happened?
Allegations of corruption have emerged against staff operating Rawalpindi’s newly launched electric green buses, after a viral video showed a conductor collecting fares from passengers without issuing tickets or receipts.
Following the video, the Punjab government halted the bus for inspection, confirming that passengers had paid but had not received tickets, leading to a formal case being filed.
Where and When?
The incident occurred on Murree Road near Liaquat Bagh, Rawalpindi, shortly after the inauguration of the electric bus service last month by Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz. The buses are operating on four major routes across the city.
Who Is Involved?
- Conductor: Haider Ali, accused of criminal breach of trust
- Checking Team Head: Azhar Nawab, lodged the complaint with City Police Station
- Authorities: Punjab government and City Police conducting investigations
Why Did It Happen?
The service is outsourced, similar to the Metro Bus system. Reports suggest that system loopholes allowed the conductor to collect fares without proper oversight, leading to the misuse of passenger payments. The viral video sparked a provincial-level inquiry into operational transparency.
How Was the Misconduct Verified?
An inquiry team stopped bus EV-24 and questioned passengers. All confirmed having paid fares but stated they had not received tickets or receipts. The violation was documented, and a case registered under Section 409 of the Pakistan Penal Code and relevant Motor Vehicle Ordinance sections.
Additional Context
The Rawalpindi electric bus service was launched to improve public transportation, providing free rides for women, senior citizens, small children, and students. The incident highlights the need for stricter monitoring and accountability in outsourced public transport systems.
Key Questions Emerging
- What measures will be taken to prevent further misconduct? Authorities may implement stricter ticketing protocols and digital fare collection.
- Why was the system vulnerable to cash misappropriation? Lack of oversight in the outsourced model created opportunities for misconduct.
- How will public trust be restored in the new electric bus system? Transparency and prompt corrective actions are essential.
- Who else could be investigated? Potential scrutiny of other staff operating on similar routes is possible.