Islamabad commuters will soon be able to access complete information about electric bus routes, stations, and schedules directly through Google Maps. Chairman Capital Development Authority (CDA) Muhammad Ali Randhawa has directed officials to ensure all electric bus details are available online, making it easier for citizens to plan environment-friendly journeys from home.
During a meeting at CDA headquarters, Mr Randhawa instructed that all electric buses should be clearly visible on Google Maps, with different colours and detailed information about stops and arrival times. This move aims to help passengers identify buses easily and plan their trips more efficiently.
He also called for the introduction of debit and credit card payments, including MasterCard and Visa, for bus fares. CDA officials have been asked to coordinate with banks to enable card-based payments. Additionally, Mr Randhawa directed the team to launch special travel packages and discount cards for weekly, monthly, and quarterly commuters, with extra discounts for students, daily wage workers, and senior citizens.
Officials reported that the electric bus project is progressing well, with daily ridership reaching around 95,000 passengers. The chairman emphasized that the service will continue to improve and expand, with more routes to be added soon.
Meanwhile, the fares for Islamabad’s metro bus services have been increased ahead of Eid ul Azha 2025. According to a public notification, the new fare policy takes effect from June 1, 2025. The fare for a single trip on the Orange, Green, Blue Lines, and Electric Feeder routes is now Rs 100, up from Rs 50 on most routes. The Orange Line’s N-5 to Airport route, previously Rs 90, is also now Rs 100.
Officials say the fare hike is necessary to maintain service quality amid rising fuel prices and operational costs. However, the 100 percent increase has caused concern among passengers, especially those from low-income groups, who have called for a distance-based fare system.
| System | Route | Existing Fare (Rs.) | Revised Fare (Rs.) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Orange Line Metro Bus System | FAF to NS | 50 | 100 |
| NS to Airport | 90 | 100 | |
| Green Line Bus Feeder Route Service | PIMS to Bhara Kahu | 50 | 100 |
| Blue Line Bus Feeder Route Service | PIMS to Gulberg Green | 50 | 100 |
| Electric Vehicle Feeder Service | Islamabad Feeder Routes | 50 | 100 |
The fare for the Rawalpindi–Islamabad (Red) Metro Bus remains unchanged.
Earlier reports of a fare increase from May 26, 2025, were denied, but the new fares have now been officially implemented. Passengers are encouraged to check Google Maps for updated bus information and plan their journeys accordingly.
Get the latest automobile news, car launches, bike reviews, videos and analysis wherever you prefer.
Add ProPakistani to Preferred Sources and see more of our stories in Google Search and Top Stories.