In a major development, 27 state-of-the-art electric buses have arrived in Lahore from China. These buses reached the Karachi port on January 15, and transport department officials have been instructed by Transport Minister Bilal Akbar Khan to complete all necessary preparations to make them operational.
Punjab Transport Minister Bilal Akbar Khan expressed that with this development, yet another promise made by Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz is being fulfilled. After the success of the Metro Bus and Orange Line Train, the province is now set to receive an eco-friendly public transport system. The electric buses are expected to begin operations on Lahore s roads by February 15.
The transport minister further stated that these 27 electric buses are just the beginning, with plans to introduce over 500 more buses in the near future. The initiative aims to provide the public with affordable and high-quality travel options. Khan also praised Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz for her practical steps towards the development and prosperity of the province, noting that the entire credit for the eco-friendly transport project goes to her leadership.
Following are the benefits of eco-friendly electric buses:
Electric buses produce zero emissions, helping to reduce the harmful air pollutants like nitrogen oxide (NOx) and particulate matter (PM) that contribute to smog and respiratory issues, making the air cleaner and healthier.
By operating on electricity instead of diesel or gasoline, electric buses help reduce greenhouse gas emissions, contributing to efforts against climate change and supporting sustainability goals.
While the initial investment in electric buses may be higher, the operational costs are significantly lower. They require less maintenance, have fewer moving parts, and the cost of electricity is lower compared to traditional fuels.
Electric buses are much quieter than their diesel counterparts, reducing noise pollution in urban areas and improving the overall quality of life for residents.
Electric motors are more efficient than combustion engines, meaning electric buses convert a higher percentage of the energy they use into motion, which is a more efficient use of resources.
Electric buses help decrease the reliance on oil and gas, which are finite resources, and contribute to energy diversification, including the use of renewable energy sources like wind or solar.
By cutting down on air and noise pollution, electric buses help improve public health, reducing respiratory and cardiovascular problems that are often caused by pollution from conventional buses.
