New EV bus route inaugurated in city

Sharjeel touts PPP's delivery record; new route to benefit Gulshan-e-Maymar residents

KARACHI:

The Sindh Transport Department on Tuesday inaugurated a new electric vehicle (EV) bus route, marking another addition to the province's public transport network.

The inauguration ceremony was attended by Senior Minister for Information, Transport and Mass Transit Sharjeel Inam Memon, Mayor Murtaza Wahab, Deputy Mayor Salman Murad, MNA Dr Shahida Rehmani, and other officials.

Speaking on the occasion, Sharjeel said that during the holy month of Ramazan, the PPP is delivering on its commitments to the people. He said the initiative reflects the collective vision of the party leadership, including Asif Ali Zardari, Bilawal Bhutto Zardari and Faryal Talpur, along with the Sindh government.

He states that development becomes evident wherever the PPP is in power, adding that Karachi is witnessing accelerated progress on multiple mega projects. He said the provincial government, in coordination with the city administration, is focusing on improving solid waste management, water supply and overall infrastructure.

Referring to the security situation, the minister said Pakistan is actively engaged in combating terrorism and its armed forces are responding with determination. He also paid tribute to former leaders Zulfikar Ali Bhutto and Benazir Bhutto for strengthening the country's defence.

Highlighting transport initiatives, Sharjeel said the Sindh government was the first in the country to introduce EV buses and the Pink Bus Service for women. He added that efforts to empower women also include the provision of Pink Scooties.

He said the newly launched EV bus route would particularly benefit residents of Gulshan-e-Maymar, where Pink Buses have also been introduced for the first time.

He added that procurement of EV buses faced hurdles, including delays at the port and higher taxation, with the Sindh government paying 18 per cent tax compared to one per cent imposed elsewhere.