ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s capital Islamabad is set to get a new electric sightseeing service as the Capital Development Authority (CDA) plans to introduce double-decker buses on a dedicated tourism route, connecting more than 15 major recreational, scenic and heritage destinations across the city.
The initiative is aimed at giving residents and visitors, including families, students, senior citizens and people without private transport, an organised and convenient way to explore Islamabad’s major attractions.
CDA spokesperson and Director General Nawazish Ali Khan Asim told WE News English that fares, routes and other operational details would be finalised and announced later.
Sightseeing circuit to connect major attractions
The proposed circuit is expected to cover prominent destinations including Lake View Park, Shakarparian, Pakistan Monument, Faisal Mosque, Daman-i-Koh and D-Chowk, along with other recreational and heritage sites.
Sources said the CDA has also approached Heavy Industries Taxila (HIT) for a feasibility study and cost estimates for procuring the double-decker buses.
Under an initial proposal, the authority plans to launch the service with four buses covering a roughly 25-kilometre city tour, starting from F-9 Park and connecting important tourist locations including Faisal Mosque, Lok Virsa and Shakarparian.
An official said the CDA hoped to make the service operational within about three months if the procurement process proceeds as planned.
اسلام آباد کے شہریوں اور سیاحوں کی سہولت کے لیے الیکٹرک ڈبل ڈیکر بسیں متعارف کرانے کا فیصلہ کیا گیا ہے۔ شہری اور سیاح ڈبل ڈیکر بس سے اسلام آباد کے خوبصورت مناظر سے لطف اندوز ہو سکیں گے۔ سی ڈی اے کے مطابق بسیں اسلام آباد کے 15 سے زائد اہم تفریحی، تاریخی اور سیاحتی مقامات سے منسلک… pic.twitter.com/AAvbFj6ZcF
— PTV News (@PTVNewsOfficial) September 24, 2026
Electric buses combine tourism with green transport
The proposed buses would have a maximum capacity of 90 passengers, including 67 seats, while low-floor boarding and dedicated wheelchair spaces would improve accessibility for persons with disabilities.
The buses are also planned to feature air-conditioning and modern braking, stability and suspension systems.
Read Also: Pakistan’s Capital to Get Eco-Friendly Electric Tram Network
The CDA says the use of electric buses would combine sightseeing with environmentally friendly transportation through zero tailpipe emissions.
According to HIT, the organisation specialises in designing, engineering, manufacturing, assembling and testing electric buses and provides transport solutions for public transit and other sectors.
The CDA is awaiting HIT’s input before deciding on procurement. Officials said importing buses from China could also be considered, similar to the procurement model used for the existing electric-bus fleet.
Existing electric bus network provides foundation
The CDA already operates an electric bus service through its contractor on more than 20 routes, with a fleet exceeding 160 buses. The service has attracted substantial daily ridership from Islamabad residents.
🚍 Route FR-09: Amended CDA Electric Bus Route Now Operational! ⚡
Experience seamless eco-friendly travel with CDA’s electric buses! 🌿 The updated Route FR-09 now extends from Khanna Pul to Golra Mor Metro Station, offering enhanced connectivity with 25 key stops.
🚌 Updated… pic.twitter.com/XQKrOjJg7P
— Capital Development Authority – CDA, Islamabad (@CDAthecapital) January 31, 2025
The proposed sightseeing buses would add a tourism-focused service to the city’s existing electric transport network, potentially allowing visitors to access several attractions through a single organised circuit.
Read Also: Electric Buses Start Operation in Islamabad
However, the fare structure, operating frequency, boarding points and launch date have yet to be formally announced.
The latest proposal also comes against the backdrop of previous CDA announcements regarding a proposed tram service for Islamabad, which did not materialise. The authority will now have to complete feasibility, procurement and operational planning before the new sightseeing service can begin.
