Karachi's Electric Bus Route Disrupted by Charging Problems

Jawad

02 Nov 2023

326

Karachi's Electric Bus Route Disrupted by Charging Problems

Commuters in Karachi are currently facing significant disruptions as two out of three electric bus service routes have been temporarily shut down, according to a recent report by a national daily. The ongoing issues with the electric bus service have raised concerns among passengers.

Clarification from SMTA's Managing Director

However, the Managing Director of the Mass Transit Authority (SMTA), Kamal Hakeem, offered a different perspective, stating that only one of the routes had been closed due to charging problems. Hakeem maintained that routes No. 1 and 2 are continuing their normal operations, while the electric bus service on route 3 remains affected. He emphasized that the core issue revolved around insufficient charging of the electric buses.

Efforts to Resolve Charging Issues

In response to the ongoing disruption, relevant officials have initiated efforts to address the charging problems. To facilitate this, a new charging station has been installed at the Mehran Depot. Additionally, a request for a new connection and Power Management Technology (PMT) has been submitted to further enhance the charging infrastructure.

Future Plans and Timelines

Kamal Hakeem, the Managing Director of SMTA, also shared that assistance from K-Electric is expected to expedite the installation of PMT within two weeks. Once the buses are fully charged at Mehran Depot, the electric bus service on route 3 will resume normal operations, providing relief to commuters.

Compatibility Challenges with Charging Infrastructure

It is important to note that the new electric buses have encountered compatibility issues with the existing charging infrastructure. SMTA is currently working on the installation of suitable chargers to ensure seamless operations in the future.

A Look at the Charging Stations

Since its launch earlier this year in January, two charging stations have been established, one in Bahria Town and another in Malir Cantt, to serve a fleet of 40 buses. While the station in Bahria Town has been functioning effectively, the one in Malir has presented consistent challenges for the officials, contributing to the disruption in the electric bus service. Efforts to resolve these issues are ongoing to provide a smoother and more reliable commute for passengers.

Electric bus service Public transportation Karachi transit Charging problems Mass Transit Authority SMTA Commuter disruptions Public transportation challenges Charging infrastructure Electric buses in Karachi Transportation service interruptions

« PREV POST
Shutdown Extended by Pak Suzuki After Honda

NEXT POST »
Peugeot E-408 and E-5008 Set for 2024 Debut

Related Auto News Updates