CDA expands Islamabad electric bus service to new routes

In line with the Punjab government’s plan to expand the electric bus (e-bus) service across the province, the Capital Development Authority (CDA) is preparing to start two new routes for its electric buses.

The new routes will connect Khanapul to Nilor and G-9 to Faizabad, following progress at the Zero Point depot, which has now become partially operational.

So far, 14 out of 20 charging points at the Zero Point depot have been installed, and the remaining work is expected to be completed in the next two days.

A CDA official said, “Once the integration process is completed, the issue of charging point shortage will be resolved. From Wednesday, we are likely to operate buses on the two new routes.”

Last year, CDA’s contractor, the National Radio Telecommunication Corporation (NRTC), imported 160 electric buses for Islamabad. Currently, 130 buses are running on 21 routes, while the rest are waiting to be deployed once more charging stations are ready.

The Rs1.5 billion Zero Point depot project, which began in January, has two parts. Site A is already functional, while Site B, which includes a data center, will be completed by the end of next month.

CDA pays NRTC based on the per-kilometre operation of buses and also provides logistical support.

Officials believe this expansion will improve public transport in the capital and promote environment-friendly travel for residents.

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