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Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz inaugurated the province’s first electric bus service in Lahore, marking a step towards sustainable public transport. Speaking at the event, she announced that 27 electric buses have arrived in the first phase, with a total of 500 expected by August.
Students and disabled passengers are entitled to complimentary transportation, while electric bus fares are currently priced at Rs20. “Safety of women will be ensured while traveling in electric buses,” CM Maryam stated, mentioning that each bus is equipped with free Wi-Fi, mobile charging, and security cameras for added protection.
The program comprises a proposal to distribute 100,000 bicycles at no cost to students as part of her public welfare strategy. “PML-N has a public welfare agenda, adding that all mega projects have been launched by Nawaz Sharif,” she said. She further stated, “Every project of Punjab is completed from the budget of the province.”
Discussing future infrastructure projects, CM Maryam announced plans for an underground train service and the expansion of metro bus services. “From next year, Punjab government will start metro bus service project in Faisalabad and Gujranwala and next year in Sargodha,” she added.
During an interaction with a delegation of Balochistan students and faculty, she distributed laptops and gifts while receiving a traditional Baloch shawl. The students praised Punjab’s development efforts, saying, “Undoubtedly, Punjab is ahead of other provinces in every department.” They also compared the cost of living, noting, “In Balochistan, bread is available for 40-50 rupees, while in Punjab, it is 12-13 rupees.”
CM Maryam announced the commencement of electric bus manufacturing in Faisalabad and extended an invitation to Chinese companies to commence sector investments. She reiterated the project’s objective is to reduce air pollution while maintaining the affordability of public transport. “This is Punjab on the path of innovation,” she remarked, reaffirming the government’s commitment to sustainable development.
