The mentioned bus departs from Skardu on the morning of July 8th. Right from the start, there are slight issues with the vehicle, but the company insists that the bus is in perfect condition. The bus leaves two hours behind schedule.
Before reaching Chilas, the bus gets a flat tire. When both drivers attempt to change the tire, they discover that the spare tire is also flat. They flag down another vehicle, load the tire, and take it to Chilas, leaving the passengers waiting in the heat for an hour. After replacing the tire, the journey resumes towards Rawalpindi.
As the bus approaches Babusar Pass, it becomes evident that the steep climb is too challenging. Just as expected, the bus overheats and begins to roll backward. All the passengers start reciting prayers, but thanks to the driver’s quick thinking, they regain control. However, due to overheating twice while climbing Babusar Top, the bus is stopped. Thankfully, they find some cold water nearby.
After many delays, they finally reach Naran. Following a dinner break, the bus resumes at a snail’s pace. By now, everyone realizes the bus’s poor condition and echo the common saying, “Better to arrive late than never.”
Shortly after leaving Naran, the bus gives up entirely and breaks down. The soldiers on board are eager to get home, while we students are anxious to reach our university. Since the bus had been moving slowly from the start, no other vehicles are behind us. It’s 1 AM, some people leave while the rest of the passengers sleep in the bus. Morning comes, and we are still there. A Suzuki van arrives, and we ask to be taken to Mansehra. After a two-hour ride to Mansehra, we find another vehicle, and three hours later, we finally reach Rawalpindi. It had been 30 hours since we left home, with countless calls and messages. After informing everyone, they felt reassured.
This was my travel story, and many others may have experienced similar incidents but remain silent. But I will speak up.
I have a few questions for the authorities:
- Why are the conditions of Skardu’s buses so poor?
- Was this bus even tested for fitness?
- Why did the bus not leave on time?
- Why does NATCO neglect the Skardu route, resulting in all buses being in such bad shape?
- Why is the new Yutong bus always fully booked?
If these issues can’t be resolved, then shut down NATCO!
