Key Facts
- EV taxi launch
- September
- New electric buses
- 1,000 by end of year
- Double-decker buses arrival
- 50 in October in Karachi
- New bus routes
- Larkana-Qambar and Qambar-Shahdadkot
- University Road lane opening
- September
Background
The Sindh government has decided to launch an electric vehicle (EV) taxi service from September as part of broader efforts to modernise the province's public transport system.
The decision was taken at a meeting of the Transport and Mass Transit Department chaired by Senior Minister Sharjeel Inam Memon. The meeting was attended by Transport Secretary Asad Zamin, TransKarachi CEO Zubair Channa, Yellow Line Project Director Kamal Dayo and other officials, who were briefed on ongoing projects.
Current Situation
Officials said 50 new double-decker buses would arrive in Karachi in October, while another 1,000 electric buses would be inducted into the public transport fleet in phases by the end of the year.
The meeting also approved the launch of new Peoples Bus Service routes between Larkana and Qambar, and Qambar and Shahdadkot.
In a move aimed at easing congestion, it was decided that a portion of the mixed traffic lane on University Road would be opened to the public in September to improve traffic flow.
| Initiative | Details |
|---|---|
| EV taxi service | Launch from September |
| Electric buses | 1,000 to be inducted in phases by end of year |
| Double-decker buses | 50 to arrive in Karachi in October |
| New bus routes | Larkana-Qambar and Qambar-Shahdadkot |
| University Road mixed traffic lane | Portion to open in September |
Impacts
Sharjeel directed authorities to complete all depots of the Red Line Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) project within the stipulated timeline and ensure that newly approved bus routes are made operational without delay.
The senior minister further stated that the EV taxi service and induction of electric buses would provide citizens with modern, comfortable and environmentally friendly transport options.
He added that the arrival of double-decker buses would further enhance commuting facilities, while the opening of the mixed traffic lane on University Road would help improve traffic movement in the city.
Future Outlook
Scenario analysis: The possibilities below are not certain predictions.
Sharjeel reiterated the government's commitment to providing safe, reliable and sustainable public transport, adding that efforts were under way to upgrade infrastructure and introduce technology-driven solutions across the sector.
If the timeline is met, the EV taxi service and the first batch of electric buses could begin operations in September, with the full induction of 1,000 e-buses by the end of the year. However, delays in depot completion or bus delivery may push these dates.
The opening of the mixed traffic lane on University Road in September could ease congestion, but its impact will depend on actual traffic patterns and compliance.
Source: tribune.com.pk
