INFRASTRUCTURE: NEW BUSES, OLD PROBLEMS |
The introduction of electric buses has emerged as a positive development for Karachi’s public transport system. Providing an affordable, comfortable and environmentally friendly mode of travel, these buses have been widely welcomed by commuters in this teeming metropolis of over 25 million people.
During the city’s harsh summer months, air-conditioned electric buses offer relief from the scorching heat, making daily travel significantly more comfortable for passengers.
I take public transport daily, travelling around 13 kilometres from my residence in Gulistan-i-Johar to my office in Muhammad Ali Society. The commute takes around one hour in the morning and increases to 90 minutes on the way back. These journeys have exposed me to the many problems commuters face.
Most buses remain overcrowded, with passengers vastly exceeding seating and standing capacity, particularly during peak hours. Sindh’s transport ministry revealed in 2024 that the city had only 1,029 buses, as opposed to the total requirement of 15,000 buses. This includes around 380 electric and hybrid buses as part of various Sindh government initiatives.
Karachi’s electric buses promised comfort and relief from the heat — but overcrowding, erratic schedules and under-investment are turning the ride into another daily ordeal
Karachi’s electric buses promised comfort and relief from the heat — but overcrowding, erratic schedules and under-investment are turning the ride into another daily ordeal
Typically, a bus with a seating capacity of approximately 30 passengers between the men and women’s section carries between 70 and 80 passengers. During peak hours, the number can exceed........