The Sindh government has unveiled an ambitious plan to revolutionize Karachi’s public transportation system by introducing 8,000 electric buses. This major step aims to make travel in the city easier, environmentally friendly, and more efficient.
The project will be rolled out in three stages, with the first phase already underway. In this initial phase, 500 buses will hit the streets within the first year, complementing the 50 electric buses already operating on key routes in Karachi. These buses are a part of a larger plan to replace outdated vehicles with modern, eco-friendly alternatives.
In the second phase, 1,500 more electric buses will join the fleet, significantly improving the city’s mass transit capacity. The third and final phase will see the introduction of 4,000 to 6,000 additional buses over the next four years. To support these buses, the government is also planning to build infrastructure like charging stations, bus depots, and terminals.
One of the most exciting parts of this project is the development of a massive solar plant capable of producing up to 1 gigawatt of electricity. This plant, set to be completed during the final phase, will provide a clean energy source for the buses, further reducing the city’s carbon footprint.
The initiative’s pilot project, involving 50 electric buses on a rent-to-own model, was approved in May 2024. These buses are supplied by the National Energy & Transport Corporation (NETC) under a cost-per-kilometer payment system. The Sindh government has already allocated significant funds for this purpose, including Rs412.50 million for the last quarter of fiscal year 2025. Additionally, Rs1.65 billion will be spent annually for eight years to support the project’s financial needs.
This groundbreaking plan is not just about reducing pollution. It also promises to bring a better commuting experience to millions of Karachi residents. With modern buses, reliable service, and environmentally conscious infrastructure, the city’s public transportation is on the verge of a green transformation that benefits everyone.Karachi’s new electric buses represent a brighter future for the city, where public transport will be cleaner, faster, and more accessible for all. This is a giant leap towards a sustainable tomorrow and an important milestone in improving the quality of life for Karachi’s residents.
