RAWALPINDI – In a landmark move for urban transport, Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz is set to inaugurate an eco-friendly electric bus service in Rawalpindi today, promising a modern, sustainable commuting option for the city’s residents. The initiative, aimed at reducing traffic congestion and pollution, marks a major step in Pakistan’s push toward greener public transport solutions.
The first phase of the project will see 45 electric buses deployed on four key city routes, connecting major commercial and residential hubs. These include the Saddar-Qabristan Chowk route via Misrial Road, the Fawara Chowk to Koral Chowk corridor through Liaquat Bagh and Sir Syed Road, a service from Saddar Metro Bus Station to Munawar Colony along Tulsa Road, and the Marir Metro Bus Station to Motorway Chowk via The Mall and Peshawar Road. Authorities anticipate that roughly 24,000 passengers will benefit from the service daily in this initial rollout.
To support the fleet, a dedicated charging station has been established at Saddar GTS bus stand on Adamjee Road, complemented by a bus depot under construction on Peshawar Road. The Punjab Transit Authority will manage operations, integrating the electric buses with the existing Metro Bus system in Rawalpindi and Islamabad. Training for drivers and ticketing staff has already been completed, ensuring a smooth launch.
Officials emphasize that the project is more than a transport solution. By cutting down on fuel consumption, noise, and emissions, the electric bus service represents a strategic move to modernize urban mobility and improve the quality of life for city commuters. The government has also indicated plans to expand the network in coming months, potentially increasing ridership and extending the environmental benefits across the wider metropolitan area.
The launch of Rawalpindi’s electric bus fleet is being hailed as a forward-looking initiative, positioning the city as a model for other urban centers in Pakistan looking to transition toward sustainable, high-tech public transportation systems.
This story has been reported by PakTribune. All rights reserved.