The Punjab government is preparing to launch the Rawalpindi electric buses service in November as the Punjab Masstransit Authority (PMA) and the Regional Transport Authority (RTA) complete final arrangements. So far, 45 electric buses have arrived in the city to operate on 10 routes.
Officials confirmed that a total of 80 Rawalpindi electric buses will be deployed in different phases. In the first phase, 45 buses have reached the city, while 15 have been dispatched to Gujar Khan. The PMA will oversee operations in Rawalpindi, whereas the Punjab Transport Company will manage buses in Gujar Khan.
Earlier, Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz was set to inaugurate the new transport system[1] on October 15, but the ceremony was postponed due to the Tehreek-i-Labbaik Pakistan protest in Islamabad.
Uzair Shah, General Manager (Operations) at the PMA, said charging stations and depots have been completed. He added that fares will range between Rs20 and Rs25. “A total of 120 electric buses will eventually run in Rawalpindi, with 35 more expected to arrive next month,” he said.
According to officials, new bus shelters will be constructed by the RTA to provide shade and protection for passengers. The electric buses will also be linked with the Rawalpindi-Islamabad Metro Bus Service, offering commuters a cleaner, more comfortable, and affordable travel option.
References
- ^ inaugurate the new transport system (www.techjuice.pk)