The Punjab government has announced plans to introduce 102 electric buses in Rawalpindi. This Rs. 7 billion initiative aims to modernize the city’s public transport system while reducing pollution and promoting cleaner urban mobility.
Additionally, the electric buses will run along a length of 84 kilometers, which includes 10 important public transportation lines. A total of Rs. 4.7 billion has been set aside by the provincial government for the project. By reducing pollutants in the area, the initiative is anticipated to greatly enhance air quality.
Punjab’s Minister of Transport Bilal Akbar Khan announced in June that the e-bus service will launch in 2019. On one route, the buses will go from Taxila, Wah Cantt, and IJP Road to Octori 26, while on another, they will go from Daultala to Rawalpindi.
Punjab Expands Electric Bus Initiative to 200
The initiative was expanded in August with the approval of Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz, increasing the total number of electric buses to 200. During Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s visit to China, the two countries reached an agreement to address environmental challenges and promote sustainable transport in Pakistan, particularly in Islamabad and other provinces. This decision is a result of that agreement.
With the new electric buses, public transit in Rawalpindi and the Rawalpindi Cantonment will be improved and brought up to international standards. In addition, a new terminal will be built at Adamjee Road in Rawalpindi Cantonment, and contemporary bus terminals with a capacity of 100 buses will be constructed at the existing GTS bus depot in Chohard Choke. These terminals will also have 40 electric chargers to back up the electric fleet.
