The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government has decided to extend the Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) service to new areas in Peshawar, including Ring Road, Bara Road, and Khyber Road. Moreover, the provincial government has also approved the acquisition of 72 additional diesel-hybrid buses.
Feasibility studies would be conducted in Mardan, Swat, Abbottabad, and Dera Ismail Khan over the next month, with plans to launch eco-friendly buses based on the findings.
During a meeting chaired by K-P Chief Minister Ali Amin Khan Gandapur, it was decided to launch BRT buses on new routes along Ring Road, Bara Road, and Khyber Road.
Officials also assessed the progress of BRT commercial plazas, with constructions at the Mall of Hayatabad and Dabgari projected to be completed by the end of April. The priority was given to completing the missing link on Ring Road to tackle traffic challenges in Peshawar.
The plans to expand the Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) network in Peshawar and adding more buses in the next six months are aimed to improve public transportation and provide better commuting options for residents. This decision was made during a high-level meeting focused on strengthening and expanding the existing BRT infrastructure.
The meeting was attended by key officials, including the Secretary of Transport and the CEO of TransPeshawar, who discussed the potential routes and strategies for ensuring a smooth expansion. Haji Rangiz Ahmad, Special Assistant to the Chief Minister for Transport, confirmed that the BRT service will extend from Shah Alam Staff on Charsadda Road to Naguman Staff, with further expansion reaching Warsak and Khyber Roads in Peshawar.
This expansion is expected to significantly enhance accessibility, allowing more people to rely on a safe, efficient, and affordable transport system. With the increasing population and growing urbanization in Peshawar, public transportation improvements have become a necessity, making this BRT extension a crucial step in addressing traffic congestion and commuter needs.
To ensure smooth and timely implementation, feasibility studies for the proposed routes are being prioritized. The government is focusing on rapid execution, aiming to minimize any delays that could hinder the project’s progress. Haji Rangiz Ahmad highlighted that this BRT expansion aligns with KP’s broader vision of creating a modern transport system that not only serves the public efficiently but also contributes to the province’s economic growth.
Expected Benefits of BRT Expansion
- Improved Public Mobility – The new routes will provide a wider transport network, enabling thousands of people to commute conveniently.
- Reduced Traffic Congestion – With more people using BRT services, traffic congestion on major roads is expected to decrease, making the city more navigable.
- Cost-Effective Travel – The affordable fare structure will help daily commuters, particularly students and low-income workers, save money.
- Environmental Impact – More reliance on public transport means fewer private vehicles on roads, reducing carbon emissions and pollution.
- Economic Growth – A well-connected transport system promotes business activity by making it easier for workers and customers to travel.
The KP government remains committed to making public transport accessible, modern, and sustainable, ensuring that BRT continues to evolve as a cornerstone of urban mobility in Peshawar.