By ABDULLAH 
Mianwali has officially joined the list of cities in Punjab embracing eco-friendly transport, as Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz inaugurated the Green Electric Bus Service on Monday. The launch of this service is being seen not just as a technological upgrade, but also as a step toward sustainable development and equal opportunities for smaller districts.
The inauguration ceremony took place at Ikram Shaheed Chowk, where CM Maryam Nawaz boarded one of the newly introduced electric buses and traveled up to the local sports stadium. Addressing a large gathering, she described the project as a commitment to building a cleaner, greener, and more modern Punjab.
She announced that the Punjab government has placed an order for 1,500 buses, out of which 200 have already been received. The first fleet of 15 buses has now started operations in Mianwali, making it the first district outside major urban centers to benefit from this modern transport facility.
“The decision to begin from Mianwali shows our determination to end the sense of deprivation in smaller cities. We want every corner of Punjab to feel included in the province’s progress,” she said.
The newly launched buses are designed to bring comfort, accessibility, and modern facilities to passengers.
- Air-conditioned coaches to provide relief during hot summers.
- Wi-Fi services so passengers can stay connected during travel.
- Disabled-friendly features to ensure inclusivity for all commuters.
- Eco-friendly technology, reducing dependence on fossil fuels and cutting harmful emissions.
To support this service, four charging units have been installed at the new bus terminal, ensuring smooth operations and minimal downtime for the buses.
While the project has started in Mianwali, the Punjab government plans to expand the service to other districts in the coming months. CM Maryam Nawaz highlighted that this initiative is not just about public transport, but also about economic growth, cleaner air, and better living standards.
The Chief Minister reiterated her vision of making transport safe, affordable, and modern for all Pakistanis, not just those in big cities. “Public service means reaching every home, not just the urban elite,” she emphasized.
The people of Mianwali have warmly welcomed this development, expressing hope that the buses will ease transportation challenges. For many residents, this project is more than just a service; it symbolizes the government’s recognition of their needs.
Local commuters believe the buses will:
- Reduce daily travel costs compared to private transport.
- Provide a comfortable and reliable alternative to overcrowded wagons.
- Help students and workers commute easily between home, schools, and workplaces.
For families, the safety and accessibility features of the buses are particularly important, especially for women, children, and the elderly.
During her speech, CM Maryam Nawaz reminded the public that her government has been actively present in times of crisis. Referring to relief efforts during floods, she said, “Some criticize me for working in the field, but I know the helplessness of the people. Real work requires sacrifice.”
She further announced upcoming projects for healthcare and sanitation, adding that the Suthra Punjab scheme is already functioning in Mianwali. Plans to upgrade government hospitals were also shared, so patients would no longer have to travel to larger cities for treatment.
The launch of electric buses in Mianwali marks an important shift in Punjab’s public transport landscape. With a focus on sustainability, inclusivity, and modernity, the initiative reflects a growing awareness of the need for environment-friendly solutions in Pakistan.
If successfully expanded, the project could:
- Lower carbon emissions and reduce air pollution.
- Save fuel import costs, helping the economy.
- Create a new standard for public transport across the province.
For Mianwali, this step also ends years of neglect, as the district now finds itself at the forefront of Punjab’s transport revolution.