Punjab Launches Electric Bus Service in Rawalpindi

The Punjab CM has officially launched the electric bus service in Rawalpindi today. This initiative aims to improve public transportation throughout the city and its surrounding areas.

The service will begin with 45 electric buses across four main routes in Rawalpindi, including its cantonment area. The buses will provide an eco-friendly alternative to traditional public transport, helping reduce traffic congestion and pollution. DAWN reported.

Key Routes and Details:

The electric bus service will initially operate on four main routes, connecting Rawalpindi’s key areas and the surrounding cantonment. The routes are strategically selected to improve accessibility, with the following details:

• Route 1: Saddar to Qabristan Chowk (7 km, 7 buses)
  This route will cover key commercial areas like Qasim Market and Shalley Valley, providing vital connectivity along one of Rawalpindi’s busiest corridors.
  
• Route 2: Fawara Chowk to Koral Chowk (11.3 km, 8 buses)
  Spanning major intersections and landmarks such as Liaquat Bagh, Sir Syed Road, and Old Airport Road, this route connects busy neighborhoods and commercial hubs.
  
• Route 3: Saddar Metro Bus Station to Munawar Colony (7 buses)
  Operating along Tulsa Road, this route will provide an essential link to one of Rawalpindi’s prominent residential areas.
  
• Route 4: Marrir Metro Bus Station to Motorway Chowk (13.1 km, 14 buses)
  This route connects key areas, The Mall and Peshawar Road, enhancing long-distance connectivity and connecting commuters to major highways. 

Infrastructure and Operations

The service will have a dedicated charging station at the Saddar GTS bus stand on Adamjee Road, with plans for a depot on Peshawar Road. The buses are expected to handle approximately 24,000 daily passengers, providing a critical link to the metro bus networks in both Rawalpindi and Islamabad.

Staff and Training

Staff training for drivers and ticketing personnel has been completed in anticipation of the launch. The electric buses will be a more environmentally friendly option than the current diesel-powered buses operating in the area.

Expansion Plans

Officials have indicated that the service will be expanded over time, with additional buses and routes planned for the future if the initial phase proves successful.

The launch of the electric bus service is seen as a step towards modernizing Rawalpindi’s public transportation system, promoting cleaner energy solutions, and improving mobility for city residents.