ISLAMABAD: Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz inaugurated the province’s first electric bus project on Wednesday, marking a significant step toward a modern and environmentally friendly transport system.
At the ceremony held at the Expo Centre in Lahore, Maryam Nawaz highlighted the government’s commitment to public relief as a top priority. She noted that in just one year, the government had launched projects equivalent to those typically planned over five years.
Maryam Nawaz announced that 27 electric buses had arrived and would begin operations the following day. Additionally, 500 more buses are expected to arrive in August, aligning with the government’s vision for a greener public transport system. She declared that the “Green Punjab” vision is now a reality.
Special individuals will receive free bus cards, and the fare for electric buses will range between Rs20 and Rs35.
Gender Safety and Healthcare Initiatives
The Chief Minister issued a stern warning against harassment of women, pledging strict accountability for offenders. She also revealed plans for Punjab’s first government-run air ambulance service, which will soon be operational. Furthermore, patients from Balochistan will receive treatment at Punjab’s government-run cancer hospital.
Criticism of Previous Government
Maryam Nawaz took aim at the previous provincial government, accusing them of operating under a system of bribery. She stressed the importance of decency in political discourse but criticized certain groups for attacking national institutions.
Meeting with Balochistan’s Students and Faculty
At the Chief Minister’s Office, Maryam Nawaz met with 49 female students and 14 female faculty members from various universities and colleges in Balochistan. She gifted them laptops and other presents, while the group honored her with a traditional Balochi shawl.
The Chief Minister also announced an expansion of Punjab’s scholarship program, which will now include students from Balochistan. This initiative will provide 13,000 students with financial aid and 100,000 students with laptops. The delegation from Balochistan praised Punjab’s strides in education, healthcare, and infrastructure, stating that the province is setting a benchmark for others to follow.
