Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif has directed authorities to introduce solar powered charging systems for electric buses as part of efforts to expand sustainable public transport across the province. The instruction came during the inauguration of the Punjab Transport Company headquarters and the Electric Vehicle Command and Control Centre.
During her visit, the chief minister reviewed key facilities at the center, including an automated bus washing plant that recycles water and a modern charging station. Officials briefed her that the station can fully charge an electric bus within 105 minutes using Yutong’s 160 kilowatt charging technology. Maryam Nawaz emphasized the need to reduce operational costs and reliance on conventional energy by shifting the charging infrastructure to solar power.
Expansion of Electric Bus Network
Maryam Nawaz instructed officials to speed up the expansion of the electric bus network and identify new routes to meet growing passenger demand. She asked for a clear timeline for the induction of 1,500 additional electric buses into the system. The chief minister also ordered better arrangements at busy stops where commuters face long waiting times, especially during peak hours.
She further directed relevant departments to claim carbon credits under the Green Bus Project, highlighting the environmental benefits of electric public transport. Officials noted that the initiative plays a key role in reducing air pollution and promoting cleaner mobility in urban areas.
The chief minister praised bus staff for assisting passengers with special needs and said electric buses are setting new passenger records across Punjab. She highlighted that women and children, in particular, benefit from the safe and comfortable travel environment provided by the service.
Maryam Nawaz also stressed that metro bus projects in Faisalabad and Gujranwala should be launched without delay to improve intercity and intracity transport facilities.
Punjab Transport Company CEO
Punjab Transport Company Chief Executive Officer Kausar Khan shared performance data, stating that more than 15.5 million passengers have used electric buses so far. This includes 3.8 million women, 1.5 million students, 750,000 senior citizens, and 300,000 persons with disabilities who have benefited from free travel services.
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Officials also briefed the chief minister on social welfare initiatives linked to the project. The transport company has launched tuck shops at electric bus stations to support widows and divorced women. Ten such shops are already operational at various Lahore bus stops, creating small business opportunities.
Authorities say the electric bus initiative reflects Punjab’s broader commitment to modern, environmentally friendly public transport while addressing rising commuter needs and promoting inclusive mobility across the province.
