By In a significant move towards sustainable urban transportation, the Punjab government has launched a pilot project introducing 27 electric buses in Lahore. This initiative, inaugurated by Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz, aims to reduce pollution and operational costs in the city. The electric buses are currently undergoing test runs along a 21-kilometer route that connects Green Town to the Lahore Railway Station, passing through key areas such as Queens Road, Mozang, Ferozepur Road, and the Punjab University Campus Bridge. Regular public service is scheduled to commence on February 16, 2025, with an expected daily ridership of approximately 17,000 commuters.
Each bus, imported from China at a cost of Rs88 million, is designed for a 12-year operational lifespan and is equipped with modern amenities, including GPS tracking, Wi-Fi, USB charging ports, and designated seating with ramps for passengers with special needs. A separate compartment for women has been designated, and onboard surveillance cameras have been installed to enhance security and prevent harassment. To facilitate passenger convenience, the buses support digital wallets and smart cards for fare payments, and a mobile app will allow real-time tracking of the buses.
Nine specific charging stations have been established at the Green Town Hamdard Chowk depot to support the fleet, with each bus capable of covering a distance of 250 kilometers per charge, allowing them to complete the route multiple times before needing to recharge. Following the successful implementation of this pilot project, the Punjab government plans to expand the initiative to other cities across the province, with a long-term vision of deploying 620 electric buses in major urban centers. This move underscores the government’s commitment to environmental sustainability and modernizing public transport infrastructure.
