January 6, 2005

Islamabad: Consumer Rights Commission of Pakistan (CRCP) has expressed deep concern over the Varan strike which left all commuters of twin cities in tremendous difficulties as few other means of transport were available. CRCP said that Varan’s point of view on the strike seems to be based on false pretext and demanded of transport authorities to take appropriate action.

CRCP Secretary General Mian Abrar Hafeez, while explaining the issue, said that in a recent accident three students were killed by a Varan’s bus. Varan while taking preemptive measures went on strike so that their buses could remain safe from any possible damage due to public agony. He said that Varan’s strike was based on false pretext that student commuters do not pay and damage buses frequently.

Due to the strike, commuters of twin cities kept waiting for long time for transport. Many students could not reach school and colleges on time. Finding no place in vans most of commuters were looking for taxies who were over charging.

Referring to the past performance of Varan, Mian. Abrar Hafeez told that according to some sources about 34 people had lost their lives due to rash driving of Varan’s buses. Commuters have many grievances related to the high fares and Varan’s monopoly over many routs between twins cities for many months, Commuters are left with no other choice but to travel by the company buses. Quality of services is very poor and commuters are forced to pack in buses like animals.

CRCP demanded higher transport authorities to take appropriate action and encourage other private transport facilities so that commuters have choices and competitive transport services are available. Varan should also revise the fare structure while considering the average commuters. Moreover the transport authorities should impress upon the company buses to observe safety standard.