Punjab govt to produce electric buses locally

The Punjab government has scrapped its international tender for electric bus imports and will now procure the buses through direct contracting, according to a private news channel, citing sources.

The decision was made during a recent cabinet meeting chaired by Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz. During the meeting, it was decided that instead of relying on global manufacturers, the buses will now be produced locally. 

A production facility is being set up in Faisalabad, and the provincial and federal governments have reportedly finalized the necessary arrangements. Initially, some parts will be imported, but the goal is to manufacture complete electric buses in Pakistan in the long term. The move is expected to save foreign exchange and create new job opportunities across the province. To maintain quality standards, the government will seek technical assistance from a prominent international company. 

It’s worth noting that 27 electric buses from the Chinese firm Yutong have already been imported for Lahore and are currently plying successfully in the city.