ISLAMABAD: The first batch of 146 electric buses out of a total of 160 has successfully arrived in Islamabad, paving the way for a modern and eco-friendly transportation system. This development aims to provide a smoother and more convenient travel experience for the public.
According to officials from the Capital Development Authority (CDA), the remaining 14 buses are en route from China and are expected to arrive soon. The CDA has also begun constructing a state-of-the-art zero-point charging station to support these buses.
Charging Stations and Delays Resolved
The CDA revealed that the construction of the charging station had faced delays due to the cancellation of tenders on two occasions. However, a new tender has been issued at reduced rates. Work has commenced, focusing first on the installation of chargers and the preparation of parking areas for the newly designated routes.
Officials stated that operations will initially run from temporary offices set up in containers. Additionally, one month of intensive training for drivers will ensure smooth operations on the designated routes.
Planned Routes for Electric Buses
In the first phase, the electric buses will operate on four major routes:
- Park Road
- B-7
- PWD
- I-8 and I-9
Approval for these routes has already been secured, and operations are expected to begin shortly.
Punjab’s Electric Bus Initiative
On December 4, the Punjab government announced its plan to operate 102 electric buses in Rawalpindi, enhancing public transportation in the region. These buses will run on an 84-kilometer route covering 10 major public transport corridors. The initiative is supported by a budget allocation of Rs. 4.7 billion, with Rs. 200 million already disbursed to kickstart the project.
This project is anticipated to significantly improve air quality by reducing environmental pollution caused by conventional public transport. The planned routes include connections between key areas such as Taxila, Wah Cantt, and IJP Road to Aktree 26, as well as Daulatala to Rawalpindi.
Commitment to Green Transportation
Punjab Transport Minister Bilal Akbar Khan confirmed that the electric bus service will officially launch next year. This ambitious project reflects the government’s commitment to eco-friendly solutions and better public transportation facilities.
The arrival of these electric buses marks a critical step toward sustainable urban mobility in Pakistan. With reduced air pollution and enhanced travel convenience, Islamabad and Rawalpindi are set to become models of modern and environmentally conscious transportation systems.
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