Driving Future: Punjab's Bold Leap Towards Green, Smart Transport
As the country marks Pakistan Day, Punjab is on the cusp of a transformative era in public transport. With a forward-looking five-year plan, the province is set to redefine urban mobility, embracing modern infrastructure, eco-friendly solutions, and enhanced road safety. From expanding Lahore's metro network to introducing electric buses and launching a first-of-its-kind glass train from Islamabad to Murree, the government is laying the groundwork for a sustainable, efficient, and inclusive transport system.
'Public transport is not just about mobility; it's about progress,' says Imran Sikandar Baloch, Secretary Transport Department, Punjab. 'We are committed to building a world-class, eco-friendly transit system that meets the needs of our growing urban population while aligning with global sustainability goals.'
Lahore's Metro Expansion: A Game-Changer move
Lahore's metro system, already serving thousands daily through the Orange and Green Lines, is set to expand with three new metro routes:
Blue Line: A 27-kilometre metro from Valencia Town to Babu Sabu Chowk, designed to cater to over 250,000 daily passengers. The billions worth project is expected to be completed within three years, reducing congestion and providing a faster, more efficient travel option.
Purple Line: A new corridor running along Canal Road, connecting Allama Iqbal International Airport to the city's heart, ensuring smooth connectivity for residents and visitors alike.
Yellow Line: Another proposed route along Canal Road from Thokar Niaz Baig, reinforcing Lahore's public transport network.
'These three lines are a major milestone,' Baloch explains. 'It will not only cut travel time but also reduce urban congestion.'
To support these projects, the Punjab Transport Department is conducting feasibility studies and design planning, ensuring state-of-the-art technology is incorporated to enhance commuter experience.
Electrifying the Future: A Move Towards Clean Transport
With the global push to reduce carbon emissions by 45 per cent by 2030, Punjab aims to cut its transport-related emissions by 15 per cent. A key part of this shift is the transition to electric buses and reducing reliance on fuel-powered vehicles.
Lahore has launched first electric bus service with 27 buses, offering a highly affordable fare. Additionally, 500 more electric buses are set to be introduced by August, marking a significant expansion of eco-friendly transport options. Also, mass transit for Faisalabad and Gujranwala are underway to extend Metrobus services to these cities, tackling congestion and pollution. Furthermore, electric vehicles (EVs) rollout in key cities like Rahim Yar Khan, DG Khan, Jhelum, and Sargodha to receive electric buses, furthering Punjab's green transport agenda.
'The shift to EVs is a priority,' says Baloch. 'By moving towards electric public transport, we are significantly cutting emissions while providing people with affordable and efficient mobility options.'
Additionally, the government's EV policy is aimed at phasing out traditional rickshaws and bikes, replacing them with clean energy vehicles.
Expanding Mass Transit Across Punjab
Beyond Lahore, Punjab is scaling up its public transport network in Faisalabad and Gujranwala, where mass transit feasibility studies are underway.
However, due to the land acquisition process and infrastructure development, officials estimate the timeline for completion to be between 1.5 and 3 years.
'Building modern transit systems is a complex but necessary challenge,' Baloch acknowledges. 'These projects will not only make commuting easier but also stimulate economic growth and job creation in the region.'
A spectacular vision: The Islamabad-Murree glass train
While Punjab's urban transit plans focus on efficiency, the Glass Train project from Islamabad to Murree aims to offer a unique travel experience, reports local media. Currently in the pre-feasibility stage, this scenic railway route will provide passengers with unmatched panoramic views of the lush hills and valleys.
Unlike conventional trains, the Glass Train will feature transparent, reinforced glass coaches, allowing passengers to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of Murree as they travel. The project, once greenlit, will offer a safe, scenic, and eco-friendly alternative to road travel along with reduced road congestion in peak tourist seasons and boosted local tourism and economic activity.
The feasibility study is currently assessing railway tracks, station locations, geological risks, and environmental impact to ensure the train operates safely and sustainably. Given Murree's protected ecosystem, authorities are conducting environmental impact assessments to minimise disruption to the natural landscape.
Once operational, the Glass Train is expected to revolutionise travel to Murree, offering a quicker, safer, and more visually stunning journey compared to conventional road transport.
Beyond transport: Strengthening institutions & road safety
While infrastructure development is crucial, Punjab's transport vision also focuses on improving Road Safety through better traffic management systems and enhanced enforcement of regulations, leveraging Technology to enhance real-time traffic monitoring, ensuring smoother city-wide transit operations and building institutional capacity to ensure public transport projects are efficiently managed, sustained, and continuously improved.
'Strong institutions and road safety measures are just as important as the transport networks themselves,' notes Baloch. 'We are ensuring that Punjab's transport future is built on a foundation of efficiency, sustainability, and safety.'
A Bold Step Towards the Future
As Pakistan moves towards a more urbanised future, Punjab's transport transformation sets the stage for a cleaner, more connected province. With ambitious metro expansions, mass transit plans, electric vehicle adoption, and the spectacular Glass Train project, the province is steering towards a future where public transport is not just a necessity, but a symbol of progress.
'These projects will define the next chapter of Punjab's development,' concludes Baloch. 'We are not just improving transportation - we are shaping the future of how people live, work, and move across the province.'
With vision and commitment, Punjab's transport revolution is well underway - bringing a cleaner, smarter, and more connected tomorrow for millions.
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