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Rawalpindi Launches 45 Electric Buses on Four New Routes

Rawalpindi launched its first electric bus system on Wednesday, introducing 45 eco-friendly buses across four major routes as the city moves toward modern, cleaner public transport. The inauguration, expected to be led by Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz, marks a major shift in Rawalpindi’s urban mobility plans.

This upgrade comes as part of Punjab’s broader push for sustainable transit, following years of growing traffic congestion and worsening air quality. Officials said preparations for the rollout intensified overnight, with security deployed, a large canopy installed at the Old Waran Depot, and charging stations fully energized at both the Old Waran Bus Terminal in Saddar and the Green Bus Terminal at Chohar Chowk.

The new electric routes link high-density areas including Raja Bazaar to Koral Chowk, Saddar to Adiala Road and Munawar Colony, Saddar to Qabristan Chowk, and Marrir Chowk to 26 Number Chungi.

“Rawalpindi is stepping into a cleaner, quieter future with a system designed to serve thousands daily,” an official involved in the project said, adding that the buses will reduce fuel dependence and help cut emissions.

The chief minister is also scheduled to receive a detailed briefing on ongoing development projects and visit the Kacheri Chowk construction site after the inauguration. Officials noted that Senior Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb may inaugurate the service if required, though Maryam Nawaz is expected to arrive between 1:30 pm and 2:00 pm.

The electric bus project aims to give residents more reliable transport while reducing pollution in one of Punjab’s busiest cities  a key step in the province’s transition toward sustainable urban transport.