Punjab is preparing for one of the most ambitious clean-transportation projects in Pakistan’s history. Under the leadership of Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif, the provincial government plans to introduce 1,500 electric buses across 16 major cities by the year 2030. This initiative forms a central part of her broader vision to make Punjab a “Clean and Green” province—one that prioritizes modern public transport, reduced emissions, and healthier urban environments.
Maryam Nawaz Sharif commits to a Clean and Green Punjab and pledges environmental leadership at COP30 in Brazil
At the same time, expanding beyond bus transit, the government has launched a comprehensive Electric-Taxi (e-Taxi) scheme to further reduce emissions, support green mobility and create job opportunities. Together these twin tracks − large-scale electric buses and an e-Taxi fleet programme − signal a major shift in how mobility, health and the environment are being linked in Punjab.
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A Vision for Cleaner Cities
Air pollution has become a critical challenge for Punjab. Cities such as Lahore, Faisalabad, Multan, and Gujranwala consistently rank among areas with the poorest air quality in Asia. The widespread use of old diesel buses, unmanaged traffic flows, and smog-causing industrial practices have contributed heavily to respiratory diseases, school closures, low visibility, and overall poor living conditions.
Introducing a fleet of electric buses directly addresses these issues. Electric buses produce zero tailpipe emissions, significantly reducing pollutants such as nitrogen oxides and particulate matter. This contributes to clearer skies, reduced smog, and major improvements in public health.
What the Electric Bus Program Includes
The government’s plan is not limited to simply purchasing buses. It consists of a complete transformation of the public transport system across Punjab.
Deployment Across 16 Cities
The 1,500 electric buses will be distributed across key urban centres, ensuring wide coverage and maximum impact. Cities expected to be included are Lahore, Rawalpindi, Multan, Faisalabad, Sialkot, Bahawalpur, Gujranwala, Sargodha, and others.
Charging Infrastructure and Modern Bus Stations
To support the large-scale rollout, Punjab will establish:
- High-capacity charging stations
- Solar-supported electric depots
- Smart bus terminals
- Enhanced monitoring and maintenance systems
This ensures reliability, safety, and efficient daily operations.
Improved Passenger Experience
The new buses will offer:
- Air-conditioning
- Quiet and smooth rides
- Wi-Fi connectivity
- Smart ticketing systems
- Comfortable seating
- Accessibility options for persons with disabilities
These upgrades aim to make public transport attractive enough to reduce private car usage.
Economic and Social Benefits
Lower Fuel Costs and Long-Term Savings
Electric buses may cost more upfront, but they significantly reduce long-term expenses. Electricity is cheaper than diesel, and electric motors require less maintenance, saving millions of rupees annually.
Healthier Communities
Cleaner air directly benefits children, the elderly, and people with breathing conditions. Fewer cases of asthma, allergies, and pollution-induced illnesses can reduce the burden on healthcare systems.
Job Creation
The transition to electric mobility will create new employment in:
- Bus manufacturing partnerships
- Battery maintenance
- Charging station operations
- E-mobility engineering
- Driver and technician training
A Modern Public Transport Image
A cleaner, quieter fleet helps reshape the perception of public transport, encouraging more people to leave their personal vehicles at home.
Maryam Nawaz Sharif’s Green Leadership
The E-Taxi Scheme: A Strategic Complement
In parallel to the bus roll-out, the government has launched an e-Taxi scheme designed to accelerate the transition of smaller public-transport vehicles (taxis) to electric power. Key features include:
- The first phase will distribute around 1,100 electric taxis to eligible drivers in Punjab.
- The scheme offers interest-free financing for approved applicants, making electric taxi ownership more accessible.
- Each e-Taxi will typically be equipped with GPS and smart metering to improve transparency and service quality.
- Women drivers are explicitly included in the scheme, with a portion of the vehicles reserved for female applicants.
- The dual goal: reduce emissions from traditional petrol/diesel taxis, and provide livelihoods and economic opportunity for both new and existing drivers.
By replacing large numbers of older, high-emission taxis with clean-electric models, and coupling this with incentives and accessible financing, the e-Taxi programme aims to make immediate local differences in air quality, especially in congested city hubs.
Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif has placed the environment at the centre of her governance agenda. Under her leadership:
- Urban forests are being developed
- Public transport is being electrified
- Waste management is being improved
- Green spaces and city beautification projects are expanding
Her commitment has gained international attention.
Maryam Nawaz at COP30 in Brazil
At the upcoming COP30 (Conference of the Parties) in Brazil, she plans to present Punjab’s clean-transportation roadmap—including the electric bus project—as a key example of how developing regions can fight pollution, protect public health, and modernize infrastructure.
Her pledge to make Punjab “Clean, Green, and Smog-Free” aligns with global climate goals and positions the province as a regional leader in environmental policy.
Why Such Initiatives Matter for Pakistan
Punjab’s electric bus program is not just a provincial project—it sets the direction for the entire country.
Reducing National Carbon Emissions
Pakistan faces rising emissions due to rapid urbanization and inefficient transport. Electrifying public transport helps counteract this trend.
Inspiration for Other Provinces
Successful implementation in Punjab can motivate Sindh, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and Balochistan to adopt similar green mobility strategies.
Long-Term Sustainability
Electric buses serve as the foundation for future electric taxis, bikes, rickshaws, and delivery vehicles—creating a cleaner transportation ecosystem.
Aligning With International Climate Commitments
As Pakistan participates in global climate agreements, projects like this support national pledges to reduce emissions and shift toward renewable energy.
Challenges Ahead
While promising, the project must navigate:
- High initial investment costs
- Expanding the electricity grid
- Ensuring renewable energy sources
- Training staff for electric vehicle maintenance
- Coordinating across multiple cities and agencies
However, with strong political will and proper planning, these challenges can be overcome.
A New Direction for Punjab
The introduction of 1,500 electric buses across 16 cities by 2030 represents a transformative step toward cleaner air, sustainable development, and modern public mobility. Under Maryam Nawaz Sharif’s leadership, Punjab is positioning itself as a forward-looking region ready to adopt global standards of green infrastructure.
If carried out effectively, this initiative will not only reshape public transport but also set the foundation for a healthier, greener, and more prosperous future for millions of residents.