Karachi to get 500 electric buses under new transport project

In a bid to overhaul its outdated public transportation system, the Sindh government has announced plans to introduce 500 fully electric buses to Karachi's roads. 

Minister of Transport Sharjeel Memon presented the proposal to the Chief Minister during a joint meeting of various departments at CM House. The plan has already begun discussions with donor agencies, and the Chief Minister is optimistic about securing funding.

According to Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah, the city's growing population has overwhelmed its public transport system, resulting in inefficient and environmentally harmful services. The induction of electric buses is expected to make a significant difference.

In addition to the electric buses for Karachi, the Sindh government is also working on modernizing transportation across the province. 300 diesel-hybrid buses will be allocated to five divisions - Hyderabad, Sukkur, Larkana, Mirpurkhas, and Shaheed Benazirabad - with 60 buses each.

Another project underway is the procurement of 300 electric buses for intercity transportation, connecting divisional headquarters. These buses will provide a cost-effective, safer, and environmentally friendly transport option, countering fare hikes imposed by private operators and addressing safety concerns.

The allocation of electric buses for intercity transportation includes:

• 60 buses for Karachi
• 50 buses each for Hyderabad, Sukkur, Larkana, and Shaheed Benazirabad
• 40 buses for Mirpurkhas