LAHORE: Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif inaugurated the province’s first electric bus project at the Expo Center in Lahore on Friday. The new climate-friendly buses will provide affordable travel for thousands of passengers while reducing air pollution.
During the ceremony, Maryam Nawaz highlighted her government’s commitment to modern and sustainable transportation solutions. She emphasized that electric buses represent a major step toward cleaner air and improved public convenience.
Focus on Inclusive Development Across Districts
Earlier, Maryam Nawaz directed officials to prioritize the distribution of 240 electric buses across 24 districts in southern Punjab. This decision reflected her shift toward inclusive development beyond major cities.
She stressed that smaller districts and rural areas must benefit equally from public projects. “Villages must be brought at par with major urban centres. All districts are equal for me,” she asserted. The Chief Minister urged officials to align development with the actual needs of the public.
Phased Rollout of Electric Buses
According to the project briefing, 240 buses will be distributed in southern Punjab during the initial phase. Between August and October, another 500 electric buses will be launched in Lahore, Faisalabad, Bahawalpur, Multan, and Rawalpindi.
Furthermore, an additional 600 buses will be introduced by the end of the year. Notably, 400 of these buses will operate under the Punjab Clean Air Programme. They will serve districts including Sheikhupura, Nankana Sahib, Kasur, and Lahore.
Maryam Nawaz directed officials to finalize routes based on public demand and commuting patterns. She also stressed the importance of implementing public projects quickly and avoiding unnecessary delays.
Progress on Gujranwala BRT Project
The meeting also reviewed progress on the Gujranwala Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system. The planned 22-kilometer route will stretch from Rahwali to Aimanabad, featuring 28 stations and 80 feeder buses.
Officials discussed extending the route to Gakhar Mandi. The system will operate buses every eight minutes and include four depots for electric vehicles.
These initiatives demonstrate the Punjab government’s focus on cleaner transport, reduced emissions, and equal development across districts.
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