Punjab to roll out dedicated buses for rural women

Punjab government has announced the launch of special bus services for rural women, a crucial step towards improving transportation accessibility in the province.

The decision aims to address the ongoing challenges faced by women living in rural areas, where a lack of reliable public transport has long been a barrier to their mobility, Express News reported.

Under the new plan, a dedicated bus service will operate from each rural tehsil to the district headquarters.

Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif has also requested the development of an inter-village transport plan to further enhance connectivity.

Additionally, the government is reviewing a proposal to introduce a mass transit system consisting of 25 buses for remote districts, which will be implemented in phases.

Maryam Nawaz emphasised the importance of a comprehensive transport system for rural women, highlighting that the absence of accessible public transport has been a source of significant hardship.

She stated, "It is deeply troubling to see rural women enduring such difficult travel conditions. A modern transport system is their right, and it will help boost their confidence."

The Chief Minister has directed that immediate steps be taken to provide subsidies for female passengers within the mass transit system, with plans to develop Punjab’s first-ever women’s transport solution plan.

This initiative aims to make commuting easier for rural women, especially students and those seeking medical care.

Maryam Nawaz noted that the new transport system would bring relief to women, enabling easier access to education and healthcare.

Previously, Punjab government announced a plan to introduce tram-like trackless electric buses as part of a new sustainable public transport initiative.

Maryam Nawaz directed the provincial transport department to begin preliminary trials for the system.

During a meeting held on Thursday, the chief minister approved a five-year transport programme aimed at modernising the province's public transit infrastructure. Officials briefed her on the Automated Rapid Transit (ART) system, which has been successfully implemented in countries such as Abu Dhabi, Malaysia, and Qatar.

The meeting's participants were informed that the ART is among the most sustainable public transport systems globally.

The trackless electric buses used in this system are considered more efficient than conventional public transport, including the articulated buses currently operating in metro services in Lahore, Rawalpindi, and Multan. These vehicles can operate on standard roads within dedicated lanes, eliminating the need for specialised tracks or rail systems.

Additionally, the ART system requires less space compared to traditional buses.