RAWALPINDI: In a major development towards sustainable urban transport, 80 modern electric buses are set to operate across Rawalpindi under a new initiative of the Punjab Government.
The project, aimed at reducing traffic congestion and curbing air pollution, marks the first large-scale deployment of electric public transport in the twin cities.
According to officials, the buses will run on 10 designated routes covering approximately 86 kilometers, linking major public and transport hubs such as the Islamabad International Airport, railway station, Metro Bus terminals, and the General Bus Stand. The routes have been designed to provide last-mile connectivity for commuters traveling between Rawalpindi and Islamabad, easing pressure on existing metro and wagon systems.
The key routes include Railway Station to Lahore High Court, Koral Chowk to Fawara Chowk, Raja Bazar, Umer Chowk to Mandi Moor, Munawar Colony Adyala Road to Rawalpindi Saddar, Mareer Chowk to Mandi Moor, Faizabad to Taramari Chowk, IJP metro Station to Kurri Road, Saddar to Lala Rukh Colony and Umair Baig Road to Old Imam Bargah area.
Each electric bus will be equipped with modern facilities including air conditioning, low-floor access for elderly and disabled passengers, and digital fare collection systems.
Officials said the buses are being procured under a public-private partnership (PPP) model, with private operators responsible for fleet maintenance while the government ensures infrastructure support, charging stations, and route regulation. Charging depots are being established near the Metro Bus depot and Pirwadhai area to facilitate round-the-clock operations.
The project aligns with the government’s broader clean energy and environmental goals, which aim to replace diesel-fueled vehicles with electric transport in major urban centers. Once operational, the fleet is expected to significantly cut fuel consumption and emissions, contributing to improved air quality in Rawalpindi and Islamabad.
A senior official said the initiative would “redefine public mobility by combining environmental responsibility with commuter convenience.” The first phase of the project is likely to be operational by early 2026 after test runs and route finalization.
