In a major step toward modern and eco-friendly public transport, the Sindh government has approved the rollout of 500 new electric buses for Karachi and Hyderabad. The initiative is considered to be part of the province’s broader efforts to cut back air pollution and make daily travel safer, cleaner, and more efficient for commuters.
The decision was finalized during the 48th meeting of the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) Policy Board, chaired by Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah at the CM House on Friday. Key provincial officials were there in the meeting, like cabinet members, the Chief Secretary, the Chairman of the Planning and Development Board, the DG of the PPP Unit, and the Transport Secretary.
During the meeting, the board officially approved the People’s Green Transport Project, which will introduce the electric bus fleet via a public-private partnership model. The board also endorsed the project’s risk-sharing framework, structure, and implementation plan.
A private firm’s revised proposal was accepted, granting it the right of first refusal and an exemption from the standard prequalification process. The board also authorized the government to seek additional private sector partners to support execution.
Project Details and Rollout
The electric buses will be introduced in multiple phases. The plan includes not just the vehicles, but also the infrastructure needed to support them:
• Charging stations
• Bus depots
• Passenger shelters
• Automated fare collection system
• Intelligent transport monitoring
The project is going to operate under a 12-year concession period and is anticipated to cater to more than 200,000 passengers per day, easing the pressure on existing transport systems.
Linked with Green Line BRT
A key feature of the initiative is its integration with the Green Line Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) network. By connecting with existing mass transit services, the electric buses will improve urban mobility while cutting down travel time and fuel dependency.
Officials kept on describing the decision as a “milestone for sustainable transport in Sindh,” noting that the shift to electric mobility will help in curbing emissions, lower long-term fuel costs and offer commuters a more comfortable travel experience.
With this move, Sindh is positioning itself as a provincial leader in clean, modern transport solutions, setting the groundwork for future electric mobility projects all over the Pakistan.