CM Punjab launches hybrid double-decker buses in capital city

LAHORE: In a major step towards modernizing public transport and promoting tourism, Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has officially launched hybrid double-decker buses, the first such vehicles to hit the roads in Pakistan.

During the launching ceremony, CM Punjab Nawaz Sharif announced that five hybrid double-decker buses will play on new routes in Lahore, specifically designed to enhance the city’s attractiveness as a tourist destination. Additionally, a double-decker bus will be added to the fleet in Bahawalpur and Rawalpindi, with similar services planned to be introduced in Multan and Faisalabad.

The Chief Minister, who rode one of the new buses, emphasized the importance of these eco-friendly vehicles for the future of metropolitan tourism in Punjab. These modern buses are not just a means of transportation. They are part of our commitment to provide a sustainable and enjoyable experience for both locals and visitors,” she said.

A briefing during the event highlighted that the double-decker bus service has its roots in the Punjab Tourism Development Corporation (TDCP), which started a similar service in November 2015 during the tenure of former Chief Minister Shehbaz Sharif. This latest addition will cater to a diverse audience, including academics, diplomats, official guests, the corporate sector, celebrities, and the general public, enabling them to visit various tourist destinations.

In Lahore, three new tourist bus routes are planned, connecting the Gaddafi Stadium with several notable tourist attractions, further integrating public transport with the city’s rich cultural and historical offerings.

With this initiative, the Punjab government aims not only to increase public transport but also to stimulate the tourism sector, which will create a more vibrant and accessible urban environment for everyone.