KARACHI: After a hiatus of nearly two months since their launch in April 2023, the Sindh Government announced that electric buses are resuming operations on two city routes on Monday. Importing a new charging system from China replaced the malfunctioning one.
During a press conference, Sindh’s Information, Transport, and Mass Transit Minister, Sharjeel Inam Memon, announced the resumption of the electric bus service. He announced the arrival of the new charging system that would facilitate the operation of the 15 electric buses.
Approximately two months ago, sources familiar with the situation reported that the electric bus service on two routes was halted. The halt was due to issues with the battery recharging charger.
Memon announced that the chargers for electric buses had arrived and the buses would resume operation in Karachi from tomorrow. He further emphasized the Sindh government’s commitment to enhancing urban travel facilities and replacing older buses with a new fleet.
Additionally, the minister announced the arrival of new diesel buses on Monday as part of the Peoples Bus Service program.
Under the Peoples Bus Service program, the Sindh government imported 15 electric vehicles and launched two routes in April. However, the charging system problems dealt a setback to the initiative. During the two-month period, the services were maintained using diesel.
Sources familiar with the situation reported that approximately two months ago, the electric bus service on two routes came to a halt due to issues with the battery recharging charger. Despite efforts by local and Chinese experts, the issue persisted, leading to the decision to import a new system. Meanwhile, all 15 buses remained idle at the depot.
Mr. Memon also mentioned a bus monitoring app that he claimed has made people’s lives easier.
Dhabeji Special Economic Zone
During the press conference, the minister announced that the Sindh government has made significant progress in mega projects, including the commencement of operations at the Dhabji Special Economic Zone. This development will generate numerous investment and employment opportunities.
The government is streamlining the one-window operation process to facilitate investors and considering establishing an electric bus plant in Sindh.
Syed Qasim Naveed Qamar, the Special Assistant to the Chief Minister of Sindh for the Investment and Public-Private Partnership Unit, emphasized the importance of creating a business-friendly environment for investors. He mentioned that the development of the Dhabeji Special Economic Zone would begin on July 15.
The economic zone, which is part of the CPEC project, offers a tax holiday for a period of 10 years. The public-private partnership is constructing it, with the Sindh government providing the land, while the designated developer is responsible for its development.
The economic zone, spanning 1,500 acres and strategically located near Port Qasim, Karachi Airport, and the main railway track, is expected to generate increased employment opportunities and contribute to economic growth. The minister expressed optimism that it would become the most successful economic zone in the country.
Additionally, the Sindh government is planning to organize an investment conference in the province soon. The conference aims to showcase the natural resources in Sindh to the world and attract investment, with participants expected from around the globe.
