CDA to Reduce Electric Bus Wait Times to 10 Minutes — Expand Fleet

Great news is on the horizon for commuters in Islamabad. The Capital Development Authority (CDA) has announced plans to significantly reduce waiting times for electric buses across the city, following a surge in ridership that recently surpassed 100,000 daily passengers.

To meet this growing demand, the CDA is set to expand its fleet, ensuring faster and more convenient travel for thousands of daily commuters.

According to CDA officials, the most notable update will be the improved bus frequency. On longer routes, where passengers previously waited 30 to 45 minutes, intervals will now be cut to just 15 minutes. City routes, which currently see buses every 15 minutes, will see service intervals shortened to 10 minutes, providing better accessibility and smoother commutes for the public.

To support these enhancements, the CDA has formally requested the National Radio and Telecommunication Corporation (NRTC) to supply 60 additional electric buses. The NRTC will now seek approval from the relevant ministry to procure these vehicles.

Currently, the CDA pays the NRTC on a per-kilometre basis to operate the existing fleet. Since its launch in December 2024, the electric bus service has grown rapidly. Initially planned for 13 routes, the overwhelming demand has pushed the CDA to expand to 18 routes, making the electric bus system a cornerstone of Islamabad’s sustainable transportation strategy.

With these improvements, commuters can expect shorter wait times, increased reliability, and enhanced convenience, marking a major step forward for public transport in the capital.