Punjab Launches Electric Bus Service in Another District. Chief Minister Punjab Maryam Nawaz Sharif on Monday inaugurated Sahiwal’s first electric bus service, introducing a modern and eco-friendly transport option for the city. This step marks another milestone in Punjab’s plan to provide sustainable and affordable public transport for its citizens.
Inauguration Ceremony Highlights
The launch ceremony included a test ride by the chief minister, accompanied by Provincial Transport Minister Bilal Akbar Khan and senior officials. Citizens gathered along the route to witness the event and welcomed the buses enthusiastically. The public’s strong interest reflects the growing demand for modern and environmentally friendly transportation in the province.
Initial Routes and Bus Fleet
In the first phase, 16 electric buses will operate across four main routes in Sahiwal:
- Arifwala Bypass to Sarwar Chowk
- Noor Shah to KFC Bypass
- Farid Town to Yousafwala
- General Bus Stand to Kamir
Authorities estimate that more than 25,000 passengers will use the buses daily, ensuring smooth connectivity across key areas of the city.
Affordable and Passenger-Friendly Fares
The fare for the new electric buses has been set at Rs. 20 per stop, making it an affordable option for daily commuters. By keeping fares low, Punjab aims to encourage citizens to use public transport and reduce traffic congestion in the city.
Modern Facilities on Board
Each electric bus comes equipped with modern facilities to ensure a safe and comfortable journey:
- Wi-Fi access for passengers
- Mobile charging points
- CCTV cameras for security
- Separate women’s compartment for safety and privacy
These features make the service attractive not only for regular commuters but also for students, professionals, and women travelers.
Eco-Friendly Charging Stations
A dedicated charging station for the electric buses has been set up in Sahiwal. This ensures uninterrupted service and supports the city’s commitment to reducing carbon emissions. Provincial officials highlighted that electric buses are an important step toward environmentally friendly public transport across Punjab.
Government’s Vision for Modern Transport
Officials stated that this project is part of Punjab’s broader efforts to modernize public transport in cities. The government aims to provide affordable, safe, and eco-friendly alternatives for daily commuters. By introducing electric buses, Punjab is also setting an example for other districts to adopt sustainable transport solutions.
Benefits for Sahiwal Residents
The launch of the electric bus service will benefit the people of Sahiwal in several ways:
- Reduced travel costs for commuters
- Faster and reliable transport on main routes
- Enhanced safety and security on public transport
- Environmental protection through reduced pollution
The government hopes that these buses will encourage citizens to shift from private vehicles to public transport, further easing traffic and promoting green initiatives.
Future Expansion Plans
While the initial phase covers four main routes, authorities plan to expand the service gradually to other parts of Sahiwal and nearby districts. This expansion will increase the fleet size and improve connectivity for residents, making electric public transport a common choice across Punjab.
Conclusion
The launch of Sahiwal’s first electric bus service underlines Punjab’s commitment to modern, affordable, and eco-friendly public transport. With fares set at Rs. 20 per stop and facilities like Wi-Fi, mobile charging, and women-only compartments, the buses are designed to serve daily commuters efficiently.
Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif’s initiative demonstrates the government’s focus on green transportation and a modern travel experience for citizens. The project is expected to transform commuting in Sahiwal and pave the way for similar services in other districts of Punjab.
