LAHORE:
Lahore is set to embrace a greener mode of transportation as the Punjab Transport Company has soft-launched an electric bus project, with commercial operations commencing on Wednesday. Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz is scheduled to inaugurate the service, which aims to reduce environmental pollution and improve urban mobility.
A total of 27 electric buses, imported from China, will benefit approximately 17,000 commuters daily. The Punjab Transport Department showcased a documentary on the buses, highlighting their features and modern amenities. Each bus has a capacity of 83 passengers, including 32 seats, space for 48 standing commuters and two reserved seats for individuals with disabilities. A dedicated section for women as well as a separate driver’s cabin equipped with advanced controls enhance passenger comfort and safety.
The electric buses are fitted with GPS, Wi-Fi, USB charging ports, onboard surveillance cameras and manually operated wheelchair ramps. Commuters can pay fares using digital wallets and smart cards, while a mobile app will allow real-time tracking of the buses. The vehicles, which can be fully charged in two and a half hours, have a range of 300 kilometres per charge. A charging station for the buses has been established in Green Town.
The initiative, launched with an investment of approximately Rs2.4 billion, marks a significant step toward sustainable urban transportation. Each bus, valued at Rs88 million, has an operational lifespan of 12 years.
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