ISLAMABAD (PEN) : Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz proudly launched Pakistan’s first fully electric bus service, marking a significant step toward sustainable transportation. During the launch, she was briefed by the Minister for Transport, Bilal Akbar, as they took a ride on one of the buses. The electric bus, which can travel up to 250 kilometers on a single charge, will offer a new, eco-friendly option for commuters in Lahore.
Nine charging stations have been set up across the city to ensure the buses stay powered, and each bus has a seating capacity of 30, with room for up to 80 passengers. To promote safety and comfort, the buses will feature designated sections for women and installed cameras to prevent harassment.
Initially, 27 electric buses will operate on a 21-kilometer route that spans from Railway Station to Green Town, passing through key areas like Queen’s Road, Mozang, Ferozepur Road, and Campus Bridge. With buses running every nine minutes, this service is expected to serve 17,000 passengers daily.
The service, which will be officially launched in mid-February, offers the convenience of digital wallet and card payments, with plans to introduce universal transport cards soon. Training for 70 drivers has already begun to ensure smooth operations.
The Chief Minister also highlighted the importance of enhancing passenger comfort by ensuring the installation of solar-powered fans and water coolers at bus stops.
Following the bus service launch, CM Maryam chaired a meeting to discuss the development of an e-taxi project in Lahore. She emphasized the need to explore options for assembling electric taxis in Punjab and encouraged collaboration with the private sector to establish more electric charging stations.
Through these initiatives, the Chief Minister is working to create a cleaner, greener future for Lahore, while ensuring a more accessible and sustainable public transportation system for all.
