Balochistan’s public transport system is set for a major upgrade following the arrival of 21 state-of-the-art buses imported from China, valued at Rs 810 million, at Karachi Port. The new fleet, part of the provincial government’s initiative to modernize public mobility, will soon begin operations in Quetta and other key districts.

Quetta Division Commissioner Shahzeb Khan Kakar said the buses were procured from a leading Chinese manufacturer under an agreement signed earlier this year. Each unit, priced at around Rs 38.5 million, is equipped with air conditioning, digital monitoring systems, and fuel-efficient engines that meet environmental standards.

Officials said the project aims to ease urban congestion, improve commuter comfort, and provide affordable, eco-friendly transportation—particularly in underserved regions of the province. The initiative also underscores Pakistan’s growing adoption of Chinese technology to enhance infrastructure and service delivery.

Senior Transport Department official Ali Durrani said the government plans to expand the fleet with continued Chinese support. “Our goal is to connect remote districts with urban centers and ensure equitable access to reliable transport,” he said, noting that improved mobility would boost trade, tourism, and employment.

Local business and community leaders have welcomed the move as a milestone for regional development. “The partnership with China is not just about buses—it’s about a shared vision for inclusive growth,” said a Quetta-based community representative.

The fleet is expected to be operational within weeks, marking a significant step forward in Balochistan’s transport modernization and deepening China’s contribution to Pakistan’s sustainable urban development.

Credit: Independent News Pakistan (INP) — Pak-China