The federal government has announced free public transport services across Islamabad for one month, with the Ministry of Interior set to bear an estimated financial burden of Rs350 million.

Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi made the announcement, stating that the initiative aims to provide immediate relief to citizens amid rising transportation and fuel costs while encouraging greater use of public transit in the capital.

Under the decision, commuters will be able to travel free of charge on Islamabad’s public transport network, including metro and feeder bus services operating under the Capital Development Authority (CDA). Officials said the move is intended to ease financial pressure on daily commuters, students, and office workers who rely heavily on public transportation.

Government sources indicated that the Ministry of Interior will directly cover operational expenses during the one-month period to ensure uninterrupted service. Authorities expect the initiative to significantly increase ridership while reducing traffic congestion and fuel consumption in the city.

The announcement comes as the government accelerates broader transport reforms in Islamabad, including expansion of environmentally friendly transit options and improvements to urban mobility infrastructure. Officials believe free services will also help promote a long-term shift toward mass transit instead of private vehicle use.

Policy analysts view the decision as both a relief measure and a pilot project to evaluate the social and economic impact of subsidized public transportation in Pakistan’s capital.

Further details regarding the duration, routes, and implementation schedule are expected to be issued by transport authorities in the coming days.