Solar-powered electric buses on cards

Sindh govt asks ADB to fund 180 green energy buses

KARACHI:

In a significant move towards sustainable urban transportation, the Sindh government has announced plans to introduce 180 electric buses, powered by solar energy, on the feeder routes of Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) systems.

The decision aims to enhance public transportation efficiency, reduce environmental impact, and eliminate the need for operational subsidies. The announcement came following a meeting between Sindh Chief Minister Justice (retd) Maqbool Baqar and a high-powered delegation from the Asian Development Bank (ADB), led by Ms Cleo Kawawaki, Principal Director, and Head of the Office of Market Development and PPPs (OMDP).

The transformative impact of electric buses on public transportation solutions in Karachi was discussed during the meeting. The project specifically targets the introduction of electric buses on BRT feeder routes, aligning with climate change, resilience, and carbon credit goals. The operational Business Plan (Feasibility Study) for the project is set to commence at the end of December 2023.

Shakil Mangejo, Chairman of Planning and Development (P&D), highlighted the successful implementation of the Green and Orange Lines in Karachi, designed to accommodate an estimated passenger traffic of 50,000 per day. The integration of feeder route buses with existing and future BRT lines is expected to contribute to the long-term sustainability of the overall transportation system. Kawawaki, the head of the ADB delegation, expressed the ADB's commitment to supporting the project, reinforcing its collaboration with the provincial government.

Recycled Water Project

Baqar also discussed the West Karachi Recycled Water Project, emphasizing Karachi's water scarcity challenges. With a population exceeding 20 million, the city requires 1,100 MGD (million gallons per day) of water supply but only receives 550 MGD.

Read: Pakistan Water Week kicks off

The ADB has been designated as the transaction advisor for an unsolicited proposal, aiming to provide a full vertically integrated wastewater treatment system. The cost of the project is estimated to be around $180 million.

Wastewater Treatment

The meeting also delved into the TP-4 Wastewater Treatment and Recycling PPP project, addressing water shortages in Karachi. The Karachi Water and Sewerage Board (KWSB) is actively undertaking wastewater treatment projects, with TP-IV being the largest, boasting a treatment capacity of 120 MIGD. The project includes the connection of over 30 sewerage conduits to bring wastewater to TP4, treating 120 MIGD (Primary & Secondary) and recycling 50 MIGD to supply water to industries.

Published in The Express Tribune, December 9^th, 2023.