KHAR, June 16: The political administration of Bajaur Agency on Saturday increased transport fare 15 per cent only a day after the government decreased petroleum prices considerably.

Locals rejected the fare increase as unjustified and threatened to agitate if it wasn`t withdrawn forthwith.

Political tehsildar of Khar tehsil Haseeb Khan told Dawn that several months ago, the Bajaur Transporters Association had requested to the administration in writing to increase fare of inter-city transport vehicles 25 per cent but the fare had been increased 15 per cent only.

He further said fare of public transport vehicles plying60 routes had gone up.

The political tehsildar said the fare had been increased on the advice of a special committee composed of the local administration`s officials, businessmen and transporters.

Bajaur Transporters Association president Fateh Rehman welcomed the increase in fare and said transporters deserved permission to charge commuters more in light of rising fuel prices.

He said public transport fare hadn`t been increased since 2010.

Meanwhile, people, including tribal elders, political leaders and businessmen, rejected the increase in fare and said it should be withdrawn without delay other-wise they would begin agitation.

Inayat Killi Traders Association president Ashraf Khan rejected the fare increase, saying it would add to the misery of commoners, who were already suffering from high inflation.

Senior PPP leader Bahadar declared hike in transport fare as unjustified in light of a considerable decline in petroleum prices.

Pakistan Tehrik-i-Insaf leader Mambar Khan also rejected the increase in transport fare and said the local administration should review it for the relief of common man.

He also demanded a 25 per cent decrease in transport fare.