Green bus expansion stalled by missing stops

The second batch of 42 Green Electric Buses for Rawalpindi district has been delayed due to incomplete bus stops and charging points, even as the first batch of 45 buses — operational across Rawalpindi city, cantonment, and Islamabad limits — continues to offer residents an efficient transport option.

People in the tehsils remain eagerly hopeful for the service.

According to details, following the inauguration by Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz, 45 electric buses are successfully operating on four routes, including Raja Bazaar to Koral Chowk; Marrir Chowk to Motorway Chowk; Saddar to Adiala Road (Manwar Colony); and Saddar to Chakri Road (Qabristan Chowk).

However, out of 82 bus stops meant to be built within Rawalpindi city limits by the Municipal Corporation, only seven have been completed so far.

In the cantonment area, where 152 stops are planned, the Municipal Corporation requires official permission to build with Punjab government funds.

The Rawalpindi commissioner has forwarded a summary to the Secretary of Local Government to declare the construction a "wild charge," which would allow the bus stops to be built in cantonment limits.

According to municipal corporation officials, construction will begin once funds and approval are in place.

Once the district receives an additional 42 buses, the service will be extended to Gujar Khan, Kallar Syedan, Kahuta, Wah, Taxila, and Murree Kotli Sattian. But these routes also lack bus stops and charging stations, causing further delays.