ISLAMABAD: The fares of the metro bus service in the federal capital Islamabad have been increased before Eidul Azha.
A public notification from the administration states that the new fare policy will start on June 1, 2025 (Sunday). The fare for a single trip on the Orange, Green, Blue Lines, and Electric Feeder routes will now be Rs 100.
Previously, most routes had a fare of Rs 50, while the Orange Line’s N-5 to Airport route was Rs 90. Officials explained that the fare increase is needed to maintain service quality due to higher fuel prices, operational costs, and other expenses.
People in Islamabad and Rawalpindi were happy when the metro and electric bus services started, as they expected these would offer affordable travel compared to costly private transport and overcrowded vehicles.
However, the 100 percent fare increase has caused inconvenience for many passengers, who are unhappy with the decision. They say it will create difficulties for low-income people and reduce the service’s usefulness.
Citizens have suggested introducing a fare system based on distance, so those traveling shorter distances pay less, instead of a fixed fare for all.
Islamabad Metro Bus Service Fares (Effective from June 1, 2025)
| System | Route | Existing Fare (Rs.) | Revised Fare (Rs.) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Orange Line Metro Bus System | FAF to NS | 50 | 100 |
| NS to Airport | 90 | 100 | |
| Green Line Bus Feeder Route Service | PIMS to Bhara Kahu | 50 | 100 |
| Blue Line Bus Feeder Route Service | PIMS to Gulberg Green | 50 | 100 |
| Electric Vehicle Feeder Service | Islamabad Feeder Routes | 50 | 100 |
As per the details, the fare of the Rawalpindi–Islamabad (Red) Metro Bus, however, has not been increased.
It should be noted that a few days ago, there were reports that the fare of the Islamabad Metro Bus would be increased to Rs100 from May 26, 2025. However, those reports were later denied. But now, in less than a week, the fare has actually been increased.
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In another related news, Muhammad Ali Randhawa, Chairman of the Capital Development Authority (CDA), has asked officials to add full details of all electric bus routes, stops, and schedules to Google Maps. This will help Islamabad residents easily find eco-friendly travel options from their homes.
He gave these instructions during a meeting at CDA headquarters with board members present. Mr. Randhawa said all electric buses should appear on Google Maps with different colors and clear details about stops and arrival times. This will make it easier for passengers to find buses and plan their trips.
He also told officials to allow payments using debit and credit cards, like MasterCard and Visa. He asked them to work with banks to set up card-based fare payments.
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Mr. Randhawa further directed the team to offer special travel packages and discount cards for weekly, monthly, or quarterly travel. Discounted packages should also be available for students, daily wage workers, and senior citizens.
Officials informed the chairman that the electric bus project is doing well, with passenger numbers higher than expected. About 95,000 people are currently using the service.
Mr. Randhawa stressed that efforts will continue to improve the service and meet international standards. He also asked the team to find and add more routes to the electric bus network to make it more accessible for the public.
