New Routes Details
The two newly planned routes will be:
- Khanapul to Nilor — connecting the outskirts of Islamabad to central areas, providing better access for residents.
- G-9 to Faizabad — linking one of the busiest sectors with a major interchange, making daily commuting easier and faster.
These routes aim to improve connectivity across the city and provide citizens with a reliable, clean, and modern transportation system.
Infrastructure Development
CDA is also developing a state-of-the-art bus depot at Zero Point to support the growing electric fleet. The facility will include charging stations, maintenance areas, and parking zones for buses. Out of the total planned stations, most have already been installed, ensuring smooth operation and minimal downtime.
Currently, around 130 electric buses are operational across various routes, while additional buses will be deployed once the new charging infrastructure is fully completed.
Environmental Benefits
Electric buses are a major step toward reducing Islamabad’s carbon footprint. By cutting down fuel emissions and noise pollution, they will significantly contribute to improving the city’s air quality. Moreover, the switch to electric vehicles will reduce dependence on imported fuels, leading to long-term economic benefits.
Public Convenience
With this expansion, citizens can expect:
- More frequent and punctual buses
- Affordable fares compared to private transport
- Comfortable and air-conditioned rides
- Digital route information for passenger ease
These improvements will make public transport more attractive for daily commuters and reduce overall traffic congestion.
Challenges Ahead
While the initiative is promising, CDA still faces challenges such as ensuring timely maintenance, full charging infrastructure completion, and consistent operational schedules. Proper awareness campaigns will also be important to encourage citizens to switch from private vehicles to public transport.
Conclusion
The launch of electric buses on the new routes marks another milestone in Islamabad’s journey towards sustainable urban mobility. As the project moves forward, residents can look forward to a cleaner, greener, and more connected capital city.