CM 'flags off' 1,500 e-buses for cities

Electric buses will also be launched in remote city areas in phases

LAHORE:

Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif has approved in principle a project to run 1,500 electric buses in various cities of the province.

A transport system consisting of electric buses will also be launched in remote cities of Punjab in a phased manner.

Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz presided over a meeting in which a detailed briefing was given on projects relating to the transport department.

It was agreed in the meeting that the new transport system would be launched in six districts -- Sargodha, Sheikhupura, Sialkot, Gujrat, Rahim Yar Khan and Dera Ghazi Khan.

The chief minister ordered initiation of the purchase of 380 electric buses in the first phase and it completion at the earliest.

The electric buses will be run in Lahore and Gujranwala in the first phase. The CM set the deadline of June for launching the service in both cities.

The participants also decided in principle to start 'orange and red' bus services in Faisalabad. The Red Bus Service will operate between Samundri Road and Sargodha Road, and Orange Bus between Jaranwala and Jhang Road.

The chief minister sought a plan for the immediate construction of electric bus tracks in Faisalabad and Gujranwala.

She gave a 15-day relaxation to undertake the planning of the Yellow Line electric bus track in Lahore. She also sought a plan to establish charging stations for the electric buses.

A proposal to establish a modern transport command and control tower in Lahore was also approved.

CM Maryam Nawaz said on the occasion, "Not only Lahore, but the people of other cities also have the complete right to avail the facility of a modern transport system. I earnestly desire that every major city of Punjab is equipped with a wonderful and modern bus system."

She said electric buses would be operated in other cities to include everyone in the journey of development.

Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz also highlighted in her message on the World Health Day that an air ambulance service has been started to transport patients from the backward areas to big cities in case of emergency. She reaffirmed her commitment to providing the best health and medical facilities to the people of Punjab. She reiterated that comprehensive health reforms have been launched in the province.

The CM said, "Millions of patients are being provided medical treatment facilities at their doorsteps within just a few months through 'field hospitals' and 'clinics on wheels'. For the first time in Punjab, 1,250 health centres are being converted into modern and well-equipped clinics. Comprehensive and effective measures are being taken for the provision of treatment, medical tests and medicines in major hospitals. For the first time, medicines are being provided to the people at their doorsteps."

She added, "The people are getting better medical facilities in basic health centres in Maryam Nawaz Health Clinics. Pakistan's first government cancer hospital and a cardiology institute in Sargodha will become functional soon. Chief Minister Children's Heart Surgery Programme and a 'transplant card' have been introduced."

The CM said, "The World Health Day draws the attention of public opinion and decision-makers on health issues. The theme of World Health Day 2025 is 'Healthy start, hopeful future' related to the health and safety of mothers and children. There is a dire need to promote awareness of healthy lifestyle along with medical treatment facilities."

She added, "A healthy population is the foundation of a prosperous, peaceful and calm society. World Health Day reminds us to focus our priorities on maintaining good health. Positive changes in daily life can improve health and quality of life."