Punjab approves 657 echo-friendly buses for mega transport project

LAHORE: The Punjab government has approved the procurement of 657 environment-friendly passenger buses for major cities of the province, The Nation reported on Monday.

As per details, the provincial government has also given the green light to another initiative: the provision of 20,000 electric bikes, set to launch on May 9. The Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has also instructed the preparation of a school bus project in each district specifically for female students.

These modern buses will operate as hybrids, utilizing both diesel and electricity, thereby aiding in combating pollution and addressing the challenges posed by climate change.

Persistent high pollution levels, particularly evident during the hazardous smog season from October to January in Punjab, are not only detrimental to health but also strain the already fragile healthcare system.

The introduction of electric bikes will further empower women, enabling them to move freely and pursue education and careers independently. This initiative is poised to act as a catalyst for social mobility, particularly for low-income groups.

During a recent meeting, Maryam emphasized the need to reduce financial burdens on students by lowering the advance payment required for participation in the electric bike project. She stressed that addressing the populace’s concerns is a fundamental responsibility of the government, particularly amidst alarming inflation rates.

Senior Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb, Advisor to the CM Pervaiz Rasheed, Transport Minister Bilal Akbar Khan, Saania Ashiq MPA, along with other top officials including the chief secretary, finance and transport secretaries, and the president of the Bank of Punjab, were present at the meeting.