Pakistan has leaped one step further in the fast-advancing world to revolutionize its commuting system. The Punjab government has planned to launch the First Digital Transport System in Pakistan to provide passengers with a more secure, safer traveling experience. With the growing number of accidents in Punjab, the e-transport system is a much-needed step to improve commuting by ensuring a check and balance on the vehicle’s fitness, driver’s fitness, and other safety purposes. 

First Digital Transport System in Pakistan

The Punjab Information Technology Board (PITB) is determined to support the government’s objective of an upscaled transportation system. Initially, a control room and e-tag system will be established at the Pirwadhai Bus Terminal to collect vehicle data allowing only those vehicles to ride on roads that pass the fitness criterion. 

Inspired by the digital commuting models of one of the most advanced traveling experiences given in Paris, London, and the United States, now the people of Rawalpindi will also enjoy the advanced facilities. 

What Information The System Will Collect

The latest digital system will bring more security and efficiency to the traveling experience of both the drivers and the passengers. To increase transparency and accountability, the system will collect vehicle data including; 

• Vehicle registration number 
• Owner’s name 
• Vehicle color
• Vehicle fitness certificate details 
• Driver’s license
• Route number 
• Tracking system 

Benefits of Digital Transport System in Pakistan

The Regional Transport System (RTD) aims to upgrade how people will commute in Rawalpindi in the future. With an improved traveling experience and security, the new transport system will provide the following benefits to the commuters; 

• Comfortable rides
• Vehicle safety
• Passenger safety
• Complaint registration system for passengers

Rate of Vehicle Accidents in Rawalpindi

The growing number of accidents has stirred the nation and raised questions about the brutal causes of the life-threatening and tragic incidents. Media reports revealed more than 15,000 road accidents were reported in August 2024 only. It is a significant number for a single month which raises concerns about human life safety as 42 people lost their lives and 632 people were injured in the recent month. The statistics are concerning, making an upgraded transport system a need of the hour to minimize the rate of accidents and loss of prestigious human life.

• No. of Accidents in Rawalpindi (Aug 2024) = 15,565
• No. of victims = 1603
• No. of deaths = 42
• No. of seriously injured = 632
• No. of slightly injured = 929
• Male victims = 1326
• Female victims = 277

Causes of Road Accidents in Rawalpindi

 The recent human tragedy that took 26 lives on the Azad Patan Road, as a coach dived into a ravine Kahuta shook the city by raising a question on the safety of human life in public transport. Emergency services revealed the common causes of fatal accidents including the one that happened in Kahuta are;

• Over speeding
• Careless driving
• One-wheeling
• Wrong turning
• Tyre bursting

Impact of Digital Transport System in Pakistan

The new digital model for public transport in Rawalpindi will help reduce traffic accidents. Vehicles with fitness certificates will be allowed to roll on the roads. Punjab Government IT Department will play a crucial role in developing software for the control room. We hope this initiative soon becomes operational so that the public can enjoy its benefits, and other cities in Punjab can also implement the new model. Click here for the latest blogs. 

Need for Electronic Vehicles in Pakistan

Pakistan has a dire need for transit towards electronic vehicles as one of the actions to minimize climate impacts. Although the country contributes a little to global climate change however it is one of the most affected countries. Therefore, upgrading industrial operations, implementing green skills, and using electronic vehicles in Pakistan will help counter problems like smog.