Faisalabad witnessed a festive atmosphere on Saturday as Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz inaugurated the city’s long-awaited Electro Bus Project, marking a major step in Punjab’s drive towards modern, eco-friendly urban transport.

Arriving at the Agricultural University, the chief minister boarded the inaugural Electro Bus and travelled to Jinnah Bagh, where she was greeted by cheering students and enthusiastic supporters.

Thousands of students from the university poured onto the streets, chanting slogans in her favor and holding portraits of Nawaz Sharif, Kulsoom Nawaz, and Maryam Nawaz.

The chief minister responded warmly, stepping to the bus door to thank the students and even engaging in light-hearted exchanges with them.

Supporters lined major routes including Jail Road and University Chowk, showering rose petals and releasing doves to welcome the chief minister.

Children dressed in traditional attire and turbans also joined the celebrations, while a special child presented a portrait to Maryam Nawaz, who affectionately embraced her.

Provincial Transport Minister Bilal Akbar briefed the chief minister on the project, announcing that 150 Electro Buses would eventually serve Faisalabad division. In the first phase, 30 buses will operate across two routes — Yusuf Town to Sagle City (22 km) and University Roundabout to Sadhar (18 km).

The new service, priced at just Rs20 per ride, is expected to facilitate over 24,000 passengers daily.

Each bus is equipped with modern amenities including Wi-Fi, mobile charging ports, CCTV cameras, as well as separate compartments for women and special seating for senior citizens and persons with disabilities.

Dedicated charging stations have also been established in Faisalabad to support the fleet.

Speaking to the media, officials said the project represents a major milestone in transforming public transport in Faisalabad, offering citizens a clean, affordable, and technologically advanced commuting option.