CDA’s Electric Buses Deployed for Diplomatic Enclave Shuttle Service in Islamabad 🚍⚡️

In a game-changing move, the Capital Development Authority (CDA) has launched its fleet of electric buses to take over the Diplomatic Enclave shuttle service, ending a controversial three-year contract with a private operator. Starting this Friday, the Directorate of Municipal Administration (DMA) will oversee the service, and from Monday, eight eco-friendly electric buses will be providing a cleaner, greener ride to embassies in Islamabad’s high-security zone. 🌿🌍

While this transition is a temporary solution, many officials are urging the CDA to keep the service running permanently to protect citizens from overcharging by private contractors. 🚫💸

A Long-Standing Issue with Overcharging in Diplomatic enclave shuttle service 

The Diplomatic Enclave shuttle service, which has been in place since the aftermath of 9/11, has faced increasing criticism over the years. The private contractor in charge of the service had been charging as much as Rs500 for a round coaster ride and Rs1,000 for a high-roof van ride. 😡🚐 Passengers were also forced to pay steep fares when the contractor used private vehicles, leading to complaints of exploitation from citizens, including a report from a European diplomat.

Despite warnings from the CDA, the overcharging continued, pushing the DMA to step in and take control.

Why the Change is Needed 🤔

The shuttle service was initially introduced to restrict private vehicle access to the Diplomatic Enclave, a security measure that has persisted long after its intended purpose. But as Islamabad grows, many question why citizens can’t enter the enclave in their own vehicles with proper security checks. Some even argue that the CDA should permanently manage the service to avoid future issues with private contractors. 🤷‍♂️🚗

The cost of the previous contract was a hefty Rs102.6 million per year, a figure that many feel is unjustified, especially when the service has been marred by complaints.

A Cleaner Future with Electric Buses in diplomatic enclave Islamabad 🌱🚍

In a refreshing shift, CDA has introduced eight electric buses to operate the shuttle service. These buses are not only an environmentally friendly solution, but they also promise a more transparent and affordable fare system, with passengers paying Rs1,000 per ride. The new computerized fare system ensures that no one is overcharged, making this a win for both the environment and the public.

The electric buses bring a new sense of hope for the future of the service. Will the CDA take full control, or will private contractors return? Only time will tell, but for now, citizens can look forward to a cleaner, fairer, and more reliable shuttle service. 🚎💚-

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) 🤔

1. Why did the CDA take over the Diplomatic Enclave shuttle service?

The CDA took over after multiple complaints about overcharging by the private contractor running the service. This change is designed to make the service more affordable, fair, and transparent for citizens. 🙌

2. How much will the new electric buses cost?

Each ride on the electric buses will cost Rs1,000, with a computerized fare system ensuring accuracy and fairness. 💳💸

3. Why is the shuttle service still needed after so many years?

The service was originally set up after 9/11 to limit private vehicle access to the Diplomatic Enclave for security reasons. While its original purpose was temporary, the service has remained essential for citizens needing access to embassies. 🇵🇰💼

4. What are the benefits of using electric buses?

Electric buses are environmentally friendly, produce fewer emissions, and offer a quieter, smoother ride for passengers. Plus, they help reduce the carbon footprint of public transport. 🌍🌱

5. Will the CDA continue to run the shuttle service permanently?

While the electric bus service is temporary for now, many officials believe the CDA should permanently take over to prevent future exploitation by private contractors. 🚍✨

6. Can citizens still drive their own vehicles into the Diplomatic Enclave?

Currently, private vehicles are not allowed in the Diplomatic Enclave due to security measures. However, there are growing calls for citizens to be allowed in with proper checks. 🚗🔒

7. What happened to the contract with the private contractor?

The contract with the private operator expired, and the CDA has stepped in to manage the service temporarily. A new contract may be awarded soon, but there are concerns about the fairness of the process. ⚖️