The public transport network in Rawalpindi is set to expand from 45 to 80 electric buses within the next month, according to reports today.
The Punjab Mass Transit Authority announced that more than 35 new electric buses will soon begin operating on additional routes in the city. The move is expected to improve travel facilities for thousands of daily passengers.
Reports said that a total of 45 electric buses are currently running on seven routes across Rawalpindi. The number of buses will increase to 80 to meet growing public demand.
Authorities said more than 10 routes were originally planned for the project. However, only seven routes were launched because construction work is still underway at Kutchery Chowk.
After the construction is completed, passengers will be able to travel from Rawat T-Chowk to the District Courts more easily.
New routes will also connect Koral Chowk with Soan Bridge, the Motorway, Rawalpindi Railway Station, and Saddar.
Officials said that the expanded network will help people from nearby areas travel to Raja Bazaar and downtown Rawalpindi without facing heavy traffic congestion.
They added that the project will reduce travel time for office workers, students, and shoppers.
Authorities also confirmed that the roads from Koral Chowk and Rawat T-Chowk to the Motorway will remain signal-free to ensure smooth traffic flow.
A senior official said Phase Two of the project will connect the District Courts with other parts of the city. Bus stops will be built at six important locations.
According to officials, bus bays are being developed at Fatima Jinnah Women University, the District Courts main gate, Marqa-i-Haq Monument, Police Monument on Old Airport Road, the State Bank of Pakistan on The Mall, and Gymkhana on Rashid Minhas Road.
Fire erupts in metro bus
Metro Bus caught fire near Rawalpindi 6th road area around 8:35 AM yesterday, Saturday.
A Metro Bus caught fire near the Sixth Road area in Rawalpindi on Saturday, temporarily suspending bus operations on the Metro track. No casualties were reported in the incident.
According to the Metro Bus administration, the bus was travelling from Islamabad to Rawalpindi and was fortunately empty at the time of the fire, preventing any loss of life.
