Govt approves plan for 8,000 electric buses in Karachi

In a major step toward environmentally friendly public transport, the Sindh government approved a proposal on Thursday to introduce 8,000 electric buses (e-buses) in Karachi. The plan, submitted by the National Energy & Transport Corporation (NETC), will be executed in three phases over four years.

The provincial cabinet meeting presided over by Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah, revealed that 1,500 e-buses would be deployed in the first phase during the first year, with 50 buses already operational in the city.

In the second phase, an additional 4,000 e-buses are expected to roll out, while the remaining fleet of 4,000 to 6,000 e-buses will be operational by the final phase.

To support the large-scale adoption of e-buses, NETC will establish EV charging stations, depots, and bus stations. The corporation also plans to develop a solar energy plant capable of generating up to one gigawatt (GW) by the end of Phase 3.

Earlier, on May 30, 2024, the Sindh government approved a pilot project proposed by NETC, involving 50 e-buses on a rent-to-own model. Under this model, NETC will supply e-buses at a fixed cost per kilometre, ensuring they cover a specific distance each year to meet revenue targets.

This initiative highlights the government’s commitment to reducing carbon emissions and modernizing Karachi’s public transport system.

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