Islamabad to get 30 pink buses for women

The Capital Development Authority (CDA) is planning to introduce a dedicated electric bus service for women in Islamabad, with an initial fleet of 30 pink buses.

The initiative aims to provide women and girls with safer and more convenient public transport, particularly during rush hours when existing buses often become overcrowded.

A senior CDA official confirmed that the authority had decided to launch the service and directed the relevant department to prepare a summary for approval by the CDA board.

Following approval, the civic agency plans to engage Heavy Industries Taxila (HIT) to arrange the procurement of 30 electric buses, likely from China. The acquisition process is expected to follow the model used for Islamabad’s existing electric bus service.

The official said the new buses would initially operate on routes already covered by the existing service. However, additional routes could be introduced depending on passenger demand and operational requirements.

Islamabad currently has more than 160 electric buses operating across over 20 routes. The service has received an encouraging response from residents, but increasing passenger numbers have created difficulties for women seeking space during peak hours.

The proposed pink bus service is intended to address this issue by offering women an exclusive public transport facility.

Meanwhile, the CDA is also moving ahead with plans to introduce double-decker buses to promote tourism in the federal capital.

The authority has secured approval from its board and the Development Working Party for the project. Initially, four double-decker buses are planned for a 25-kilometre city tour starting from F-9 Park.

The proposed route will cover several prominent attractions, including Faisal Mosque, Lok Virsa and Shakarparian.

A senior CDA official said the double-decker service was at an advanced stage and could begin soon. The pink electric bus project is also expected to move forward, with the authority aiming to introduce it within the next three months.