KP Launches Pink Bus Service to Expand Safe and Affordable Transport for Women

PESHAWAR, September 30, 2026: Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Sohail Afridi has inaugurated the province’s new Pink Bus Service for women, alongside the launch of hybrid buses and solarisation initiatives at Chamkani Depot and the Mall of Hayatabad Depot, marking an effort to improve accessible and affordable public transportation for female commuters.

At the inauguration ceremony, Chief Minister Sohail Afridi said the Pink Bus Service had been introduced in fulfilment of his commitment to provide women with dedicated and accessible public transport facilities. He announced a 25 per cent fare discount for women travelling through the service and also acknowledged the contribution of female bus drivers, describing them as role models for women seeking greater participation in the workforce.

The chief minister said the new transport initiative was intended to provide women with improved mobility while supporting their participation in education, employment and other economic and social activities. The introduction of dedicated buses, he said, reflected the province’s efforts to expand public services in ways that respond to the needs of different segments of society.

The inauguration also included the launch of new hybrid buses and solarisation projects at the Chamkani and Mall of Hayatabad depots, linking the province’s public transport expansion with efforts to improve the efficiency and sustainability of transport infrastructure. The inclusion of solar energy initiatives is expected to support the operational infrastructure of the transport system while reducing dependence on conventional energy sources.

Speaking about the social significance of the initiative, Chief Minister Sohail Afridi emphasised the importance of women’s dignity, mobility and participation in public life, arguing that the introduction of women-focused transport facilities demonstrated the province’s commitment to creating opportunities for female citizens.

He also highlighted what he described as the cultural values of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, stressing respect for women and elders, care for children and commitment to the province and country. His remarks came in the context of his broader message that women’s empowerment and improved public services should remain important components of provincial development.

The Pink Bus Service is expected to provide women commuters with an additional public transport option while the fare concession could help make daily travel more affordable for students, working women and other passengers who depend on public transportation.

During the ceremony, Chief Minister Sohail Afridi also addressed political and economic issues, announcing that his party would hold a long march towards Islamabad on October 4. He said the party would proceed with the planned demonstration and would not withdraw from its announced programme.

The chief minister also criticised the country’s financial situation and government expenditure, referring to what he described as a substantial national debt burden and calling for greater focus on public service and responsible use of state resources. He questioned expenditure on official facilities and vehicles and criticised spending associated with a three-day conference, claiming that Rs6 billion in public funds was being allocated to the event.

The launch of the Pink Bus Service comes as provincial authorities seek to expand public transportation facilities while incorporating hybrid technology and renewable-energy infrastructure into the transport system. The initiative places particular emphasis on women’s mobility, with the fare concession and dedicated service intended to make public transportation more accessible to female passengers across the province.