A fleet of China-manufactured electric buses has begun operations in Gujar Khan, marking the first deployment of the green public transport service at the sub-district level in Punjab and underscoring expanding technological cooperation between Pakistan and China. The provincial ministers Khawaja Manshaullah Butt and Bilal Akbar Khan were chief guests at the opening ceremony, Gwadar Pro reported.

The launching is part of a project launched by Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif to provide modern and efficient travel facilities to the public. The inauguration ceremony was also attended by provincial officials, lawmakers and district administration representatives. The service will initially operate along the route connecting Gujar Khan Bus Terminal, Sohawa city and the Police Complex, improving mobility for thousands of daily commuters.

The newly launched buses are part of Punjab’s broader transition toward environmentally sustainable public transportation. Powered entirely by electricity, the vehicles are designed to reduce urban air pollution, lower fuel import costs and promote climate-friendly mobility solutions. Each bus is equipped with modern safety and surveillance systems, including seven onboard cameras to enhance passenger security.

Fourteen electric buses have been allocated for Gujar Khan in the first phase. Authorities confirmed that senior citizens, women and students will be able to travel free of charge, a measure aimed at increasing accessibility and encouraging public transport usage. The introduction of these buses forms part of Punjab’s larger electric mobility roadmap.

Officials have announced plans to deploy approximately 1,100 electric buses across the province during the current year, with an additional 1,500 buses projected for induction next year. The expansion reflects Pakistan’s growing focus on green infrastructure and urban sustainability.

Credit: Independent News Pakistan (INP) — Pak-China