Ghandhara Industries to Invest Up to Rs. 3 Billion in Zhongtong Bus Assembly Line

Ghandhara Industries Limited has announced an investment of approximately Rs. 2 billion to Rs. 3 billion to establish a Zhongtong bus assembly line in Pakistan. The investment will also cover the installation of a solar power system at the facility, as revealed during the company's recent corporate briefing.

The solar-powered setup is expected to significantly reduce operating costs in the coming years. Management emphasized that the move towards fully solar-powered operations will generate substantial savings as the facility ramps up production.

Ghandhara is targeting annual sales of 300 to 400 Zhongtong buses. The company will offer the buses in two variants: a 10-metre model and a 12.5-metre model. The larger version is priced at approximately Rs. 44 million, which management noted makes it around Rs. 4 million to Rs. 5 million cheaper than comparable Yutong buses.

The investment in local assembly and solar infrastructure underscores Ghandhara's commitment to expanding its presence in Pakistan's commercial vehicle market. The company expects the solar installation to contribute to cost efficiencies as it moves towards fully solar-powered operations.

This development is part of Ghandhara's broader strategy to capitalize on the growing demand for affordable and environmentally friendly transport solutions in Pakistan. The assembly line is expected to create job opportunities and support local manufacturing.

With the addition of Zhongtong buses to its portfolio, Ghandhara aims to strengthen its position in the competitive bus market, offering customers a cost-effective alternative to imported brands.