Lahore, February 1, 2025 – Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif has inaugurated Pakistan’s first electric bus service in Lahore, marking a significant step toward sustainable urban transport.  

The CM personally inspected the state-of-the-art electric bus and took a ride to experience its modern facilities on Friday. She was briefed by Provincial Transport Minister Bilal Akbar on the pilot project, which aims to provide an eco-friendly, efficient, and comfortable commuting option for the public.  

Modern Facilities for Passengers  

The electric buses are equipped with advanced features, including GPS tracking, Wi-Fi, USB charging ports, and designated spaces for differently-abled passengers. A special anti-slip sheet has been installed on the bus floors for passenger safety. Each bus can accommodate 30 seated passengers, with a total capacity of up to 80.  

Security measures have also been prioritized, with cameras installed inside the buses to prevent harassment. A separate section has been allocated for women, ensuring a safer travel experience.  

Route and Infrastructure  

A total of 27 electric buses will operate along Lahore’s longest 21-km route, covering key areas such as the Railway Station, Queens Road, Mozang, Ferozepur Road, Campus Bridge, and Ichra Canal, before reaching Green Town. The service is expected to cater to 17,000 passengers daily.  

To support the initiative, nine charging stations have been set up at the Green Town Hamdard Chowk depot. The buses, after a full charge, will be able to travel 250 km, completing four full route cycles. Forty-two modern bus shelters will also be constructed along the route, and buses will arrive at intervals of every nine minutes.  

Smart Ticketing and Tracking  

The Punjab government will introduce a special mobile app to enable passengers to track bus locations in real time. Commuters will have multiple fare payment options, including digital wallets, digital cards, and universal transport cards.  

Future Plans: Expanding Electric Mobility  

During a meeting following the inauguration, CM Maryam Nawaz Sharif reviewed plans for an electric taxi service and directed officials to explore local assembly of e-taxis in Punjab. She also emphasized the installation of solar-powered fans and water coolers at bus stations and the deployment of Safe City cameras for enhanced security.  

With the electric bus service set for full-scale operation in mid-February, Lahore is paving the way for a cleaner, more sustainable public transport system.