Punjab is gearing up for a major transformation in public transportation with the introduction of 1,100 brand-new electric buses by the end of 2025. This initiative is part of the Punjab government’s effort to modernize infrastructure, reduce environmental pollution, and make commuting affordable, accessible, and eco-friendly for millions of citizens.
Read Also: Health Card Scheme Expands Insurance Integration Revealed
From Lahore to Dera Ghazi Khan, these state-of-the-art buses are set to revolutionize urban mobility in some of Punjab’s busiest cities. With a flat fare of just Rs. 20 per ride and free travel for students, senior citizens, and differently-abled passengers, this is truly a people-first transportation reform.
🔋 What Makes These Electric Buses Special?
Unlike traditional diesel buses, these electric vehicles (EVs) are powered entirely by rechargeable batteries. This makes them not only quieter and more efficient but also zero-emission, meaning they produce no harmful pollutants. Here’s what commuters can expect onboard:
- ✅ Air Conditioning for a cool, comfortable ride
- ✅ CCTV Cameras for enhanced passenger safety
- ✅ Wi-Fi & USB Charging Ports to stay connected
- ✅ Anti-Slip Flooring and Ramps for differently-abled passengers
- ✅ Smooth, Noise-Free Travel powered by electric motors
These buses are designed for both seated (30 passengers) and standing passengers, ensuring high capacity during rush hours.
🗺️ Cities Covered in the First Phase
The first batch of these electric buses will be operational in the following cities:
| City | No. of Buses |
|---|---|
| Lahore | 300 |
| Gujranwala | 150 |
| Rawalpindi | 100 |
| Sialkot | 100 |
| Gujrat | 100 |
| Sargodha | 100 |
| Sheikhupura | 100 |
| Rahim Yar Khan | 100 |
| Dera Ghazi Khan | 150 |
Each city will receive dedicated bus stops, EV charging infrastructure, and real-time tracking portals to ensure timely and smooth operations.
🧾 Fare Policy: Affordable for All
Punjab’s electric bus project isn’t just about modern vehicles — it’s also about equity and affordability.
💸 Standard Fare
- Rs. 20 per ride (flat rate)
👥 Who Can Travel for Free?
- 👨🎓 Students (with valid student ID)
- 👵 Senior Citizens (with CNIC or age proof)
- ♿ Differently-Abled Passengers (with disability proof)
- 👶 Children under 5 (with a paying adult)
This policy ensures financial relief for millions who rely on public transport every day.
🛂 How to Use the New Electric Buses in Punjab
Getting on board is simple and user-friendly:
- Get a Smart Card (If Required)
Visit your city’s designated transport center to get a reloadable smart card for fare payments. - Register Online (Optional)
Head to the Punjab Transport Portal to pre-register and receive updates. - Load Balance
Add money to your smart card as per your travel needs. Each adult ride costs Rs. 20. - Board the Bus
Tap your card or show valid ID for free travel. - Enjoy the Ride
Use the USB ports, connect to Wi-Fi, or relax in a cool, quiet cabin. - Track & Plan
Use mobile apps or city transport websites to check routes, schedules, and delays in real-time.
🌿 Eco-Friendly & Future-Ready: Why These Buses Matter
This initiative is more than a transportation upgrade — it’s a climate action plan.
♻️ Environmental Benefits
- Zero Emissions: Helps reduce urban air pollution
- No Noise Pollution: Electric motors operate quietly
- Less Traffic Congestion: Promotes mass transit over private cars
🔧 Economic Benefits
- Lower Maintenance Costs: Electric buses are cheaper to maintain
- More Jobs: New roles in maintenance, driving, IT systems, and charging infrastructure
📅 When Will the Electric Buses Be Operational?
The buses are being shipped in phases from Shanghai, China, and will be deployed across cities over the next few months. The entire fleet will be fully operational by December 2025.
Each city will roll out its own pilot phase, beginning with Lahore and Gujranwala, followed by Rawalpindi, Sialkot, and others.
🛠️ Backed by Policy: New Energy Vehicle Policy 2025–30
This project aligns with Pakistan’s New Energy Vehicle Policy 2025–2030, which supports:
- Subsidies for electric vehicles
- Tax incentives for EV manufacturers
- Charging station development
- Green urban planning
Punjab is one of the first provinces to implement this policy at scale in public transport.
🔗 How to Stay Updated?
You can follow updates and route announcements through:
- ✅ Punjab Transport Authority Website
- ✅ Official City Social Media Pages (Facebook, X, Instagram)
- ✅ WhatsApp Channels for public info
- ✅ Local news and Google Discover articles
🚀 Final Thoughts: A Game-Changer for Punjab
With this historic move, Punjab is not only modernizing public transport but also showing leadership in sustainable development. The Rs. 20 fare makes it one of the most affordable and accessible electric bus services in South Asia.
Whether you’re a student, a working professional, or a senior citizen, these buses are designed to offer you a safe, comfortable, eco-friendly, and budget-friendly commuting experience.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
When will the new electric buses start operating in Punjab?
The first batch of electric buses is expected to begin operations in select cities like Lahore and Gujranwala by late 2025, with the entire fleet of 1,100 buses fully operational by December 2025.
What is the fare for traveling on these electric buses?
The fare is a flat rate of Rs. 20 per ride for adults. However, students, senior citizens, differently-abled individuals, and children under 5 years can travel completely free by showing valid proof.
Which cities will receive the electric buses?
The electric buses will be deployed in the following cities:
Lahore (300)
Gujranwala (150)
Rawalpindi (100)
Sialkot (100)
Gujrat (100)
Sargodha (100)
Sheikhupura (100)
Rahim Yar Khan (100)
Dera Ghazi Khan (150)