The Capital Development Authority (CDA) has announced plans to introduce an electric bus service in Islamabad, marking a significant step towards sustainable urban transport. The inauguration ceremony, scheduled for July 5, will be attended by either Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif or Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi.
Initially, the electric buses will operate on two primary routes: ‘Nust to Pims’ and ‘Pims to Bari Imam’. The first route spans approximately 13 kilometers with 13 designated stops, ensuring a bus arrives every 10 minutes to enhance commuter convenience.
The second route traverses key locations including G-7, G-6, Melody, Aabpara, Ataturk Road, Serena Hotel, Foreign Office, Radio Pakistan, and the Diplomatic Enclave, facilitating seamless connectivity across Islamabad.
These electric buses, which arrived in Islamabad last month, are part of a larger fleet comprising 200 buses. Additional buses are expected, with 70 coming from Karachi and 60 from China. The CDA has outlined plans to expand operations to cover 11 routes, encompassing both urban and rural areas of the capital.
Operated by the National Radio and Telecommunication Corporation (NRTC), a subsidiary of the Ministry of Defence, the buses will charge Rs306 to Rs331 per kilometer in fare. The CDA will manage logistical support for the contractor, ensuring efficient service delivery.
To support the initiative, the CDA has installed a charging station equipped with six charging points at the Convention Centre. Another facility is under development at the H-9 metro depot to accommodate the forthcoming fleet from Karachi. Additionally, construction of bus depots at Zero Point, I-9, and Tramri is underway to enhance operational efficiency.
This move towards electric buses underscores Islamabad’s commitment to sustainable urban mobility and reducing carbon emissions. The initiative aligns with global efforts towards environmental conservation and addresses the growing need for efficient public transport solutions in metropolitan areas.
