Established in 1997, Daewoo Express once stood as a paragon of sophistication and a well-organized transportation system. It was the unrivaled provider in the transport service industry, touting an extensive national network and international trade connections.
However, recent years have witnessed a significant decline in the quality of service offered by Daewoo Express. The exorbitant fares are in stark contrast to the abysmal customer service, deteriorating buses, and frequent delays in departures and arrivals. The once-revered reputation of Daewoo now seems a distant memory.
Safety and passenger comfort appear to be of little concern to Daewoo Express. Disturbing reports reveal a disconcerting incident on November 6, 2023, where a bus from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Province left with a malfunctioning clutch after a considerable delay. Subsequently, the bus was reported to have taken a wrong route while on the Murree Expressway. The bus was stopped by the traffic police, resulting in a further delay of arrival.
This is not an isolated incident.
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In August 2022, a catastrophic collision involving a speeding Daewoo bus and an oil tanker near Multan resulted in a tragic loss of 20 lives. The fiery crash consumed both the tanker and the bus, and subsequent investigations pointed to the driver as the responsible party. In that same month, the Peshawar district administration took the drastic measure of sealing the Daewoo Express terminal due to reports of dilapidated buses and unhygienic restroom conditions.
The once sterling reputation of Daewoo has now been tarnished by incidents of customer misconduct, subpar service, and an overall dismal travel experience. An increasing number of passengers are opting for alternative transportation options, with some even favoring local buses and vans over Daewoo Express.
The pride and sense of safety once synonymous with Daewoo are slowly dissipating. It is imperative that authorities take decisive action to ensure customer safety and protection. One thing is clear: Daewoo’s current fares are not in sync with the poor level of service provided. Daewoo Express must either enhance its service quality or adjust its pricing to align with that of local buses and vans.
It is important to improve the quality of intercity transport to meet international standards. The safety and comfort of passengers must be put first and concerned authorities must take immediate action against any violations.