Rawalpindi Set to Launch Electric Buses to Fight Air Pollution

In a bid to improve transport facilities in Rawalpindi and combat pollution, the Punjab Government has approved the launch of 102 electric buses, as part of an eco-friendly initiative. This decision was made during the 39th Provincial Development Working Party meeting on October 25, with the project set to cover 84 kilometers across 10 routes in the city. The environmentally friendly bus service, valued at over Rs 7 billion, will be implemented by the Punjab Mass Transit Authority, with Rs 4.7 billion already released for its execution. The project aims to reduce air pollution and improve urban mobility, with a completion deadline of November 2025.

Also Read: Electric Buses To Be Introduced On Lahore Roads

In parallel, the Lahore High Court (LHC) has taken strong measures to address vehicular pollution. Justice Shahid Karim ordered that government vehicles failing to undergo mandatory inspections at Vehicle Inspection and Certification System (VICS) stations within 15 days will be impounded. This directive is part of broader efforts to combat smog, reduce emissions, and protect environmental resources. The court has also urged the Transport Department and Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to intensify their focus on emissions control, particularly in the transport sector. The EPA reported substantial progress in reducing PM2.5 emissions from industries and other sources over the last eight months, contributing to cleaner air in the region.