Commuters on Lahore’s Metro Bus Service have experienced service disruptions after several Metro buses developed technical faults, prompting authorities to deploy Speedo shuttle buses on parts of the dedicated Metro route as a temporary replacement.
According to sources within the Metro Bus administration, the alternative arrangement was introduced due to a shortage of operational Metro buses caused by ongoing mechanical issues. The Speedo buses are now transporting passengers at multiple locations along the Metro corridor to help maintain public transport services while repairs are carried out.
The reduced number of available Metro buses has also affected service frequency. Instead of arriving every two minutes, buses are now reaching stations after eight to ten minutes, resulting in longer waiting times for passengers.
The situation has been further aggravated by the ongoing heatwave, with buses reportedly carrying far more passengers than their normal capacity. Overcrowding inside the vehicles has caused discomfort for commuters, many of whom have expressed concerns about delays and the lack of adequate transport during peak hours.
Officials say the deployment of Speedo buses is a temporary measure aimed at minimizing disruptions until the faulty Metro buses are repaired and returned to service. The Metro Bus administration is expected to continue monitoring operations to ensure commuters face the least possible inconvenience.
The Lahore Metro Bus Service is one of the city’s busiest public transportation systems, serving thousands of passengers every day. The current challenges have highlighted the importance of regular fleet maintenance and the availability of backup vehicles to ensure uninterrupted service, particularly during periods of high demand and extreme weather conditions.
