Authorities have registered a case against six unidentified individuals following an attack on a driver of a low-cost, solar-powered passenger vehicle near Kalgan Sabzi Mandi in Mansehra. The vehicle was also vandalised during the incident, which has raised concerns among local residents.
The complaint was filed by Asim, the driver of the solar shuttle, at Lari Adda Police Station under FIR No 813 on August 17. the report, armed men intercepted the vehicle near the vegetable market, assaulted the driver, and caused damage to the vehicle.
In a significant development, the assailants subsequently blocked the Karakoram Highway and staged a protest, escalating tensions in the area. Police have named six unidentified suspects in connection with the case and are actively investigating to identify and apprehend them.
This incident is linked to an ongoing dispute involving a locally developed, affordable passenger transport service initiated by Mansehra resident Arif Inqalabi. Arif had previously been involved in a conflict with a man named Raheel from Phulkiri over the operation of the solar-powered shuttle. The FIR notes that Arif had received threats to his life following this earlier disagreement.
Arif’s innovation involves a shuttle-style passenger vehicle powered by solar energy, designed to offer a cost-effective alternative for commuters. The service charges a fare of Rs20 for short routes, significantly lower than the Rs50 charged by conventional Suzuki vehicles on the same journeys. This affordable fare has attracted many passengers, including daily-wage workers, students, and lower-income salaried individuals struggling with rising transport costs.
Meanwhile, opposition to this service has intensified, culminating in violent confrontations. The recent assault on the driver and damage to the vehicle mark a troubling escalation in the dispute. The incident has sparked a broader conversation among locals about the challenges faced by those trying to introduce low-cost, environmentally friendly transport options without institutional backing.
Residents expressed concern over the attack, emphasizing the importance of supporting innovative transport solutions that could reduce commuting expenses and promote sustainable energy use. They questioned whether such initiatives could survive if operators remain vulnerable to conflicts with established transport providers.
The situation also underscores the friction that can arise when informal transport services operate alongside traditional public transport networks. While issues such as permits, route authorisation, vehicle registration, and safety standards require attention from relevant authorities, locals stressed that disputes should be resolved through legal and administrative means rather than violence.
Supporters of Arif have demanded a fair investigation into the assault, protection for those involved with the service, and clear legal recognition of the solar-powered vehicle. Police have confirmed ongoing raids aimed at arresting the six suspects linked to the attack and vandalism.
Investigators are examining the background of the earlier dispute, the threats made against Arif, and the circumstances surrounding the assault near Kalgan Sabzi Mandi. Further inquiries are underway to ensure justice and prevent similar incidents in the future.
