CDA Announces Two New Routes for Islamabad’s Electric Buses. The Capital Development Authority (CDA) has recently announced the addition of two new electric bus routes in Islamabad, aiming to improve public transport and make commuting easier for residents. This move reflects the city’s commitment to sustainable and eco-friendly transportation.
New Electric Bus Routes in Islamabad
According to CDA officials, the new routes will cover the following areas:
- G-9 Karachi Company to Faizabad
- Nilor to Khannapul
These routes are being added to the existing network of 20 electric bus routes in Islamabad, enhancing connectivity across major parts of the city.
The introduction of these routes is expected to benefit thousands of daily commuters, providing a reliable and environmentally friendly alternative to traditional vehicles.
Current Electric Bus Operations
Currently, around 120 electric buses are operating daily in Islamabad. These buses serve approximately 60,000 passengers every day.
The CDA has also confirmed plans to upgrade bus depots and deploy all 170 buses in the near future. Once completed, the daily ridership is expected to exceed 100,000 passengers, making public transport more accessible and efficient for residents.
Benefits of Electric Buses
Electric buses offer multiple advantages for the city and commuters:
- Eco-Friendly Transportation: Reduced emissions help lower pollution in Islamabad.
- Cost-Effective: Electric buses have lower operating costs compared to diesel or petrol buses.
- Comfortable Travel: Modern buses are designed for better passenger comfort and safety.
- Reduced Traffic Congestion: Efficient bus routes help decrease the number of private vehicles on roads.
The new routes are part of CDA’s ongoing efforts to modernize the public transport system and encourage citizens to switch to green travel options.
Addressing Passenger Concerns
Despite the positive response, passengers have raised concerns about tracking buses. Unlike many international cities, the CDA mobile app currently does not show estimated arrival times, making it difficult for commuters to plan their journeys efficiently.
Officials have confirmed that a request has been submitted to Google for real-time integration of bus timings into the CDA app. Once approved, passengers will be able to track buses in real time, ensuring smoother and more reliable travel experiences.
Improving Passenger Information
To make navigation easier for commuters, CDA has been advised to:
- Provide printed booklets at airports, railway stations, bus stops, and shopping malls.
- Install information boards at bus stops showing routes, timings, and key stops.
These measures aim to help passengers, especially first-time users, understand the routes and make commuting less confusing.
Future Outlook for Islamabad’s Electric Bus Service
With the addition of these two new routes, Islamabad’s electric bus network is expected to become more extensive and efficient. The CDA is working on expanding services, upgrading infrastructure, and improving passenger information systems.
The deployment of all 170 buses and integration of real-time tracking are expected to make public transport in Islamabad more convenient, eco-friendly, and reliable.
Residents are encouraged to take advantage of these new routes and participate in the shift towards sustainable city transportation.
Conclusion
The CDA’s announcement of two new electric bus routes is a significant step toward modernizing Islamabad’s public transport system. The routes from G-9 Karachi Company to Faizabad and Nilor to Khannapul will improve connectivity, reduce traffic, and support eco-friendly travel.
With future upgrades, real-time tracking, and passenger information initiatives, commuting in Islamabad is set to become easier, faster, and greener. The city’s electric bus network is now poised to serve over 100,000 passengers daily, marking a major milestone in sustainable urban mobility.
