Punjab Confirms Rawalpindi Electric Bus Service Launch Date – 80 EV Buses Ready

Punjab has officially confirmed the launch date of the Rawalpindi Electric Bus Service, bringing a major upgrade to the city’s public transport system. According to district administration officials, the first phase of the electric bus service will begin next week, with Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz expected to inaugurate the project.

The new EV bus service marks a major step toward modern, clean, and affordable public transport in Rawalpindi. With traffic congestion, rising fuel costs, and outdated transport options, the electric bus network is being welcomed as a highly needed solution for daily commuters.

Officials revealed that a total of 80 electric buses will operate in Rawalpindi. Of these, 45 buses are already in the city and completely ready for deployment. The remaining 35 buses will join the fleet after the main charging stations on Peshawar Road are completed by the end of December.

Initial Rollout Over 10 Routes

The first phase includes 10 major routes covering high-traffic areas, residential neighborhoods, business zones, and transport hubs. This network is designed to connect Saddar, Peshawar Road, Sixth Road, Airport Road, Chaklala, and several inner-city areas where passenger demand is highest.

The administration has also been working on scheduling, bus stop placement, and traffic flow adjustments to ensure smooth operations from the first day.

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Temporary Charging Station Operational

To avoid delays, a temporary charging facility has been set up at the old GTS bus stand on Adamjee Road. This site will support the first phase of operations until the permanent charging structure on Peshawar Road becomes functional.

Currently, the electric buses are parked at:

• GTS Bus Stand (Adamjee Road)
• Metro Bus Command & Control Centre (Haider Road)

Both locations are being used for inspections, test runs, and driver training sessions.

Inauguration Delayed Earlier

The bus service was initially planned to launch on October 15, but the event was postponed due to the Tehreek-i-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP) protest in Islamabad. Authorities have now finalized all arrangements to proceed with the launch next week.

Driver Training & Staffing Completed

RTA Secretary Asad Shirazi confirmed that all staff recruitment has been completed and driver training sessions have concluded successfully. Drivers have been trained extensively on EV systems, emergency controls, bus handling, and route safety guidelines.

He added that due to ongoing construction at Kutchery Chowk, the electric buses will temporarily bypass that stop and follow an alternate path until the area reopens for traffic.

A Big Relief for Daily Commuters

The electric bus service is expected to benefit thousands of passengers who face daily transport issues due to overcrowded vans, rising fares, and traffic jams. The new EV buses will offer:

• Air-conditioned travel
• Affordable fares
• Fixed and safe stops
• Environment-friendly operations
• Quiet and comfortable rides

The project also supports Punjab’s broader strategy to expand EV-based public transport systems across major cities including Lahore, Faisalabad, and Multan.

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Cleaner, Greener Future for Rawalpindi Electric Bus Service

Transport experts believe the new bus service will reduce:

• Carbon emissions
• Fuel consumption
• Noise pollution
• Road congestion

With 80 buses planned and more expected in future phases, Rawalpindi is moving closer to a modern public transport network aligned with international standards.

The confirmation of the launch date has created excitement among the city’s residents, especially students, office workers, and daily travelers who have long demanded better transport options.

Further details on route maps, fare structure, timings, and mobile app integration are expected to be released next week after the inauguration ceremony.