Sindh government’s approval to introduce 500 fully electric buses into Karachi’s public transport network is indeed a praise worthy step, promising to modernise commuting in the city while addressing air pollution. Led by Transport Minister Sharjeel Memon, the initiative reflects provincial government’s commitment to developing sustainable urban mobility solutions that meet the demands of Karachi’s growing population.
Over the past few years, Karachi’s transport system has made notable progress, moving from a fleet dominated by old, rusted vehicles to a network that now includes cleaner and more efficient options. The addition of Peoples Bus Service, the Pink Bus service and now the planned fleet of electric buses underscore provincial government’s proactive approach to enhancing public mobility while addressing pressing environmental issues. Electric buses, in particular, represent a leap forward that will not only improve daily commute but also contribute to easing city’s traffic congestion. In densely populated areas like Karachi, a robust and efficient public transport system is crucial to alleviating load on roads and reducing individual car use. However, in our view full potential of Karachi’s transport system can only be realised with a multifaceted approach. One critical component of this vision remains the Karachi Circular Railway (KCR) project. Once fully operational, KCR could significantly reduce city’s traffic woes by offering a reliable rail alternative, especially for intercity commuters. At the same time, it is essential to remember that other cities in the province are grappling with outdated transport systems. Expanding such innovative projects to other cities could help create an equitable and modern transport network throughout the province, improving quality of life across Sindh.
