Islamabad, Dec 27: The Punjab government has launched a project to procure electric buses for Faisalabad and Bahawalpur, aiming to enhance public transportation, reduce traffic congestion, and address environmental concerns such as smog and pollution. This initiative builds upon the success of electric buses in Lahore and is expected to significantly improve both transportation services and air quality in the two cities.
The Punjab Transport Company (PTC) is spearheading the effort, with a pre-proposal meeting scheduled for December 30 to finalize the prequalification process. This will allow eligible firms to participate in an international competitive bidding process, conducted in compliance with Public Procurement Regulatory Authority (PPRA) rules.
The project is designed to introduce eco-friendly electric buses that will not only improve the efficiency of public transport but also contribute to sustainable urban development by cutting down on pollution levels. By reducing dependence on traditional fuel-powered buses, the initiative is expected to mitigate the adverse effects of air pollution on public health.
To ensure the success of the project, the prequalification process includes stringent criteria. Firms wishing to participate must demonstrate a minimum net worth of $200 million and an average annual turnover of $600 million in bus production. Additionally, they must have at least five years of experience in manufacturing buses (Complete Built Units or CBUs) that are 7.5 meters or longer.
With an annual production capacity of at least 7,500 units over the last three years. Furthermore, the firms must have supplied at least 300 electric city buses of 7.5 to 13 meters in length in the past four years and completed at least three projects that involved supplying a minimum of 100 electric buses per order within the last five years.
In order to ensure that the procured buses meet international standards, the Punjab Transport Company is also examining designs and standards used in developed countries, such as China, the UK, and various European nations. This will help ensure that the buses are suitable for urban routes and meet high-quality standards.
The international tendering process is expected to begin next month, with advertisements to be published in both local and international media. This initiative underscores the Punjab government’s commitment to improving public transport infrastructure and promoting environmental sustainability across the region.
