New buses to arrive in April: Sharjeel

Sindh Senior Minister Sharjeel Inam Memon has announced that the routes of the People’s Bus Service are being expanded, and new buses for the service will arrive by April next year.

He further stated that efforts are underway to operate electric buses (EVs) under a public-private partnership, aiming to provide the public with affordable and high-quality travel facilities while also protecting the environment.

Speaking to the media on Wednesday after inspecting the construction work on the Yellow Line BRT bus depot in the Korangi area of Karachi, he stated that the Sindh government has initiated work on the Yellow Line BRT project. The Jam Sadiq Bridge is being constructed as the first phase of the Yellow Line BRT, while the bus depot is being developed as the second phase.

He stated that the Sindh government is constructing a world-class double-storey depot, an upgrade from the previously single-storey design. Additional space is being reserved within the depot to accommodate a potential third floor in the future. The Yellow Line BRT project, initiated with the support of the World Bank, is expected to be completed within two years.

Memon said that initially, diesel buses were planned for the Yellow Line BRT, but it has now been decided to operate electric buses (EVs) instead. A charging system is being installed at the depot to support this initiative. This will be the first BRT in the country’s history to feature EV buses, offering affordable and high-quality travel facilities to the public. Moreover, the government is also introducing EV taxis and bikes. As part of this scheme, EV bikes will be provided to riders, creating employment opportunities for many young people.

The senior minister emphasized that addressing transport challenges is a collective responsibility. He added that transporters have been urged to introduce EV buses as part of the solution and work on this project can commence soon and may be completed before 2026. Efforts will be made to finish the project within a year. Initially, 346 buses will be accommodated at this depot, and occupied bus depots will also be vacated.

In response to a question, he stated that no one should interfere in Pakistan’s internal affairs, and international lobbyists are working in favour of Imran Khan, aiming to secure his release. However, he emphasized that it is ultimately the courts that will decide the matter.

On another query, he stated that the MQM has raised concerns with the federal government, but their threats should not be taken seriously. He said Maulana Fazlur Rehman should address his concerns about the Madrasa Bill with the federal government.

In response to another question, Memon said people may face problems on the issue of vehicle fitness, but it is very important for road safety and environmental protection, the process of vehicle fitness has started from December 1.

Earlier, he visited the Yellow Line BRT bus depot to review the construction work. During the visit, Beam Al-Qawmi Consultants provided a detailed briefing to the provincial minister about the progress of the project.