Punjab Announces Decision on Increasing Electric Bus Ticket Price 2025. In a major relief for daily commuters, the Punjab government led by Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif has officially decided not to increase the ticket prices for electric buses operating in Lahore, Rawalpindi, and Multan in 2025.
This announcement follows weeks of public speculation about fare adjustments due to rising energy costs. Maryam Nawaz reaffirmed that public transport must stay affordable, particularly for students, workers, and low-income families who rely on it every day.
“These buses were launched to make travel easier, not more expensive,” said CM Maryam Nawaz. “People’s relief will remain our top priority.”
Punjab’s Decision on Electric Bus Ticket Price 2025
During the 30th provincial cabinet meeting, the proposal to raise fares for the newly launched electric buses was unanimously rejected.
This move reinforces the government’s commitment to maintaining affordable, green mobility for all.
| Details | Description |
|---|---|
| Meeting Held On | October 29, 2025 |
| Led By | CM Maryam Nawaz Sharif |
| Decision | No increase in electric bus fares |
| Cities Covered | Lahore, Rawalpindi, Multan |
| Purpose | Ensure affordable and eco-friendly transportation |
The initiative highlights Punjab’s long-term transport vision — a combination of environmental sustainability and social welfare.
Affordable, Green Transport for Every Citizen
Punjab’s electric bus network is part of the Eco-Friendly Public Transport Initiative, aiming to:
- Reduce urban air pollution
- Decrease traffic congestion
- Encourage green mobility
- Provide safe, affordable transport for citizens
These zero-emission buses are powered by clean energy, significantly reducing the carbon footprint compared to traditional diesel vehicles.
By keeping fares unchanged, the Punjab government hopes to motivate more citizens to adopt eco-friendly commuting habits.
Why Punjab Rejected the Bus Fare Increase
While inflation and maintenance costs have increased, the Punjab Cabinet refused to pass the burden onto citizens.
According to insiders, the Transport Department had recommended a minor fare revision, but CM Maryam Nawaz immediately opposed the proposal.
Main Reasons Behind the Decision
- Public Welfare First: Ensuring that transport remains accessible to everyone.
- Inflation Control: Protecting low-income commuters from additional financial stress.
- Sustainability Goals: Promoting the shift from petrol-based vehicles to electric ones.
- Student and Worker Relief: Many students and workers rely daily on these buses.
Impact on Lahore, Rawalpindi & Multan
Each of these major cities has benefited from the government’s electric bus rollout.
1. Lahore
- The first city to introduce the electric fleet.
- Covers key university and office routes.
- Has seen a 20% drop in local air pollution since the launch.
2. Rawalpindi
- Routes connected with Metro Bus and Ring Road networks.
- Improved intercity transport accessibility.
3. Multan
- Focus on student and worker mobility.
- Positive feedback from commuters due to low fares and reliability.
The consistent fare policy ensures the service remains popular and sustainable, encouraging citizens to switch from private vehicles to public transport.
Punjab’s Vision for 2025: Modern, Clean & Inclusive Transport
Maryam Nawaz Sharif’s administration is reshaping Punjab’s mobility system under the “Clean Punjab, Green Punjab” initiative.
Electric buses are part of a larger mobility transformation, which includes:
- Introducing smart ticketing systems
- Expanding charging infrastructure
- Encouraging local assembly of electric buses
- Partnering with the private sector for long-term maintenance
This integrated approach strengthens the public transport ecosystem, reduces fuel dependency, and supports Pakistan’s climate action goals.
New Teacher Recruitment and Property Law Approval
The cabinet meeting also covered key policy approvals across other departments:
1. School Teacher Interns (STIs) Recruitment
To overcome teacher shortages, the government approved the recruitment of STIs in public schools.
This decision aims to:
- Improve education quality
- Enhance learning accessibility
- Create employment opportunities for qualified graduates
2. Punjab Protection of Ownership of Immovable Property Ordinance 2025
Under the “One who possesses it owns it” vision, the cabinet approved a major legal reform protecting rightful landowners from encroachment and fraudulent claims.
This move strengthens land rights and promotes transparent property registration across the province.
Farmers to Get 60% Subsidy on Modern Machinery
In another major decision, the Punjab Cabinet approved a 60% subsidy on modern agricultural machinery under the Chief Minister’s High-Tech Farm Mechanisation Finance Programme.
| Initiative | Chief Minister’s High-Tech Farm Mechanisation Programme |
|---|---|
| Subsidy Rate | 60% |
| Equipment Covered | Super seeders, laser land levelers, and planters |
| Applications Received | 10,000+ (1,500 via Bank of Punjab) |
| Goal | Modernize Punjab’s agriculture sector |
“Punjab’s agriculture suffered from poor mechanization in the past, but our government is determined to change that,” said CM Maryam Nawaz.
This subsidy will help farmers boost productivity, conserve resources, and reduce production costs — ultimately stabilizing food prices and improving the provincial economy.
Kisan Card Phase-II and Sugarcane Crushing Season
The government reaffirmed its commitment to farmers through the Kisan Card Phase-II Program, ensuring quick financial assistance and improved accountability.
Key Highlights
- Rs100 billion distributed under Kisan Card Phase-II.
- Rs70 billion successfully recovered from previous beneficiaries.
- 24-hour payment processing after repayment verification.
In addition, the sugarcane crushing season will officially begin on November 15, 2025, ensuring timely payments to growers and consistent supply to sugar mills.
Other Cabinet Highlights
Beyond transportation and agriculture, the Punjab Cabinet reviewed several developmental projects:
- Approval for High-Speed Rail Project between two major cities.
- Price review of DAP and Urea fertilizers to stabilize the agricultural market.
- Focus on rural economy growth and innovation in the agri-tech sector.
- Plans to expand public transport to smaller districts for better connectivity.
These decisions reflect the provincial government’s multi-sector strategy — ensuring development, employment, and sustainability go hand-in-hand.
Public Response and Expert Opinions
The announcement received widespread appreciation from the public, environmental activists, and policy experts.
Commuter Reactions
Daily passengers in Lahore expressed relief that fares would remain unchanged despite rising costs in other transport modes like rickshaws and taxis.
Environmental Experts
Experts praised Punjab’s decision, saying it aligns with global clean transport goals and helps cities like Lahore achieve better Air Quality Index (AQI) scores.
Economists
Analysts view this decision as a socially responsible step balancing economic realities with public welfare, especially in a period of inflation.
FAQs
1. Will the Punjab government increase electric bus fares in 2025?
No, CM Maryam Nawaz has confirmed that electric bus fares will remain unchanged in 2025 to ensure affordable transportation for citizens.
2. Which cities are currently operating electric buses in Punjab?
The electric buses are operational in Lahore, Rawalpindi, and Multan, covering major public and educational routes.
3. What benefits do electric buses provide to commuters?
Electric buses offer eco-friendly travel, lower ticket costs, less noise, and better air quality, making them a sustainable public transport option.
4. What is the new subsidy for farmers in Punjab?
Farmers can now receive up to 60% subsidy on modern machinery under the High-Tech Farm Mechanisation Programme to enhance productivity.
5. When will the sugarcane crushing season start in Punjab?
The sugarcane crushing season will begin on November 15, 2025, ensuring fair pricing and timely payments to farmers.
Conclusion
The Punjab government’s decision not to raise electric bus fares reflects a strong commitment to public welfare and environmental sustainability.
By combining green transport initiatives, education reforms, and agricultural modernization, Maryam Nawaz’s leadership continues to prioritize the people’s needs over profit.
