RAWALPINDI: The first phase of electric bus service will launch next week on 10 routes in Rawalpindi, officials said. Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz is expected to inaugurate the eco-friendly transport system. A total of 80 buses will eventually operate, covering key city areas and linking Islamabad.
In the initial phase, 45 buses that arrived last month will be deployed. Temporary charging stations have been set up at the old General Transport Service bus stand on Adamjee Road, Saddar. By December, two more charging stations will open, allowing the remaining 35 buses to arrive. The third phase will add 30 more buses once the Kutchery Chowk depot is completed.
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All staff recruitment and driver training have been completed, officials said. Routes were finalised, though some changes were made due to construction at Kutchery Chowk. Until construction is completed, buses will take alternate roads to maintain service. Recharging facilities have also been arranged in Saddar for operational convenience.
The buses will run on 10 routes, covering 86 kilometres and connecting Rawalpindi to the airport, railway station, Metro Bus stations, general bus stand, and other city areas. Key routes include Railway Station to Lahore High Court Rawalpindi Bench, Koral Chowk to Fawara Chowk, Umar Baig Chowk to Mandi Mor, and Faizabad to Tramri Chowk.
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Officials said the main aim is to provide a modern, eco-friendly transport system while reducing pollution in the garrison city. A new depot is being constructed on 28 kanals of land on Peshawar Road to park the buses. Authorities emphasised that the buses will integrate with the Metro Bus service to improve urban mobility.