The Punjab government has acquired 87 new air-conditioned electric buses from China which have arrived in Rawalpindi with the aim of providing affordable yet modern travel facilities to the citizens.
The project will cover an extensive area of 84 kilometers across the twin cities. The buses are equipped with Wi-Fi, Global Positioning System (GPS) tracking and mobile charging ports.
Sources reported that construction work has already begun at the former Government Transport Service (GTS) station. Charging stations are yet to be built across various locations in the city.
Read: Rollout of electric buses hits roadblock
Traveling through these buses will be free for senior citizens above 60 years, while normal fares are set at Rs20 per ticket.
President of PML-N Rawalpindi Division Malik Abrar Ahmed said 87 air-conditioned electric buses would be launched across four routes in phases. The first phase will run from Rawat to Motorway Chowk, providing citizens with a comfortable and reliable commuting option.
The project was supposed to be inaugurated on October 15 by Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz, but it was delayed due to civil unrest by Tehreek-i-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP) across Punjab.
Read more: Electric bus service to be rolled out in Pindi
Stating that the people of Rawalpindi were eagerly awaiting the Chief Minister’s visit, Malik Abrar described the project as a landmark public welfare initiative aimed at easing daily commuting challenges and extending modern amenities to all sections of society.
He cited notable initiatives such as the School Revamping Programme, the establishment of Mother and Child Hospitals, the Punjab Green Tractor Scheme, subsidized food programs and digital government reforms – all of which reflect the Punjab government’s commitment to transform Punjab into a modern, prosperous and welfare-oriented province.
