The federal government has rejected a proposal from the Balochistan government to provide 100 green buses for Quetta city. This decision has sparked concerns about the future of mass transit in a province that already struggles with inadequate public transport facilities.
The Balochistan government had proposed a plan to the federal authorities, aiming to introduce 100 green buses to Quetta. This proposal, once approved at the provincial level, was forwarded to Islamabad for inclusion in the upcoming federal budget. However, the concerned federal authorities ultimately rejected the plan, as reported by sources.
The rejection comes despite a promise made by Anwarul Haq Kakar during his tenure as caretaker prime minister to provide these green buses to Quetta. This pledge had raised hopes among residents and provincial officials for an improved and environmentally friendly public transport system.
Currently, Quetta operates eight green buses on a public-private partnership basis, a modest effort towards enhancing the city’s public transport. However, this is far from meeting the city’s needs, highlighting the critical necessity for more comprehensive support and infrastructure.
Shahid Rind, the spokesperson for the Balochistan government, expressed the province’s disappointment over the federal decision. He emphasized that the provincial government plans to resubmit the green buses proposal to the center, hoping for reconsideration and eventual approval. Rind stressed the importance of this project for Quetta’s urban development and environmental sustainability.
It is worth noting that Balochistan remains the only province in Pakistan without a mass transit system. This lack of infrastructure significantly hampers the region’s development and the daily lives of its residents. The introduction of 100 green buses would have marked a substantial step towards addressing this gap, providing a more reliable and eco-friendly transport option.
The rejection of the green bus proposal raises critical questions about the federal government’s commitment to supporting sustainable urban development in Balochistan. Public transport systems are vital for reducing traffic congestion, lowering carbon emissions, and providing affordable transportation options for citizens. In regions like Balochistan, where development lags behind other provinces, such initiatives are even more crucial.
The provincial government’s decision to revisit the proposal reflects a persistent effort to advocate for the needs of its citizens. For Quetta, the introduction of green buses is not just about improving public transport but also about making strides towards environmental conservation and sustainable urban living.
Moving forward, it will be essential for the Balochistan government to build a stronger case for the green buses project, possibly highlighting its potential economic, social, and environmental benefits. Engaging with stakeholders, including federal authorities, local communities, and private partners, could help create a more compelling argument for the proposal’s approval.
