The Capital Development Authority (CDA) is set to launch two new electric bus routes in Islamabad this week as work on the Zero Point charging depot nears completion. The new eco-friendly routes will operate between Khanapul Nilor and G-9 Faizabad, expanding the capital’s growing green public transport network.
Islamabad’s electric bus project, launched in collaboration with the National Radio Telecommunication Corporation (NRTC), aims to reduce carbon emissions and promote sustainable urban mobility. Out of 160 imported electric buses, 130 are already operational on 21 routes, while the remaining buses were awaiting completion of charging infrastructure.
According to CDA officials, 14 of 20 charging points have been installed at the Zero Point depot, with full integration expected within two days. Once complete, the depot will begin round-the-clock charging operations, resolving the city’s limited charging capacity.
“After completing the integration process in the next couple of days, our issue of limited charging capacity will be resolved. We expect to begin operations on the two new routes by Wednesday,” a CDA official confirmed.
The Rs. 1.5 billion Zero Point depot project, launched in January 2025, includes two sections Site A and Site B with the latter housing a data center. Final finishing work on Site B is expected by end of next month.
CDA’s electric bus initiative is part of Islamabad’s broader vision to become a digital and sustainable city, following recent launches such as the cashless One Window System. Officials also confirmed that CDA compensates NRTC based on per-kilometre travel, encouraging optimal service efficiency.