Rawalpindi: In a significant move aimed at improving public transport and reducing pollution in Rawalpindi, the Punjab Government has approved a massive PKR 4.7 billion investment to launch an electric bus service. The decision was made during the 39th Provincial Development Working Party meeting on October 25, 2024, and marks a major step towards a more sustainable and eco-friendly transportation system for the city’s residents.
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The project, valued at over PKR 7 billion, will have 102 environmentally friendly electric buses to cover 84 kilometers across 10 different routes in Rawalpindi. Scheduled for completion by November 2025, this initiative is designed to provide a modern, cleaner alternative to the current public transport system, which has long struggled with air pollution and congestion.
Punjab’s Mass Transit Authority (PMTA) will oversee the implementation of this ambitious project. The buses are expected to significantly reduce harmful emissions, contributing to cleaner air and a healthier environment for the residents of Rawalpindi.
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The project has received financial backing from the Punjab Government, which allocated PKR 4.7 billion for the initiative. The remaining funds will be mobilized in the coming phases, with the full project set to be completed by the end of 2025.
Experts believe the electric buses will play a crucial role in curbing the rising levels of air pollution in the region, especially given the growing concerns around smog and its impact on public health.