The Punjab government has taken another major step toward modernizing public transport with the arrival of 87 brand-new electric buses from China, set to operate across Rawalpindi and Islamabad. This initiative is part of the government’s broader vision to create a cleaner, more affordable, and inclusive urban mobility system for citizens.
According to officials, these air-conditioned electric buses will serve routes covering nearly 84 kilometers across the twin cities. Each bus is laced with the following
- Wi-Fi connectivity
- GPS tracking
- Mobile charging ports
This will ensure a comfortable and connected experience for commuters.
A Project with People at Its Heart
The project emerges as a public welfare milestone, offering free travel for senior citizens aged above 60, while regular passengers will enjoy an affordable fare of just Rs20 per ticket. Officials keep on saying that this initiative not only provides relief to working-class commuters but also recognizes the needs of elderly passengers who rely heavily on public transportation.
PML-N Rawalpindi Division President Malik Abrar Ahmed confirmed that the buses will operate on four key routes, launched in phases. The first route — from Rawat to Motorway Chowk — will soon be opened, promising a smooth, reliable, and eco-friendly travel experience for thousands of daily passengers.
Read more: 500 electric buses planned for Karachi, Hyderabad under People’s Green Transport Project
Infrastructure and Implementation
Construction work has already begun at the former Government Transport Service (GTS) station, where the bus depot and charging facilities will be developed. Additional charging stations are planned across strategic city locations to support round-the-clock operations.
The inauguration, initially planned for October 15, was delayed due to civil unrest by Tehreek-i-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP) across Punjab. However, officials assure that service will begin soon after the situation stabilizes.
A Step Toward a Modern Punjab
Malik Abrar has extended a word of appreciation for Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz’s leadership, highlighting that the electric bus service is strongly showing alignment with her broader agenda for a modern, welfare-driven Punjab.
He also said that other initiatives — including the School Revamping Programme, Mother and Child Hospitals, Green Tractor Scheme, subsidized food programs, and digital governance reforms are part of a larger effort to improve the lives of the masses via sustainable development.
With the launch of this project, Rawalpindi and Islamabad are set to experience a cleaner, quieter and smarter way to commute — a glimpse of the future of public transport in Punjab.