Islamabad, Sep 25: Pakistan is planning to build its first high-speed rail project, connecting Lahore and Rawalpindi, which will completely transform the country’s transportation system. A project projected to cost approximately $1.6 billion has been included in a proposal that has been presented for approval to the Chief Minister of Punjab.
The high-speed rail, which was developed by the mass transit and transportation departments, intends to allow trains to move at speeds of up to 250 km/h, cutting the average trip time between Lahore and Rawalpindi to less than two hours.
With financing anticipated from the Department of Planning and Development, the proposal emphasizes the significance of developing an action plan based on a pre-feasibility study carried out by the railway department. Finding the first funding needed for this enormous project is still a major obstacle, though.
If approved, this high-speed rail project would provide a quicker means of transportation between two important cities and represent a significant improvement in Pakistan’s infrastructure.
It is important to note that Lahore’s tram service was just approved by the Punjab government. Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif recently visited the Lahore Development Authority (LDA) headquarters and introduced this project. Ten stops spaced roughly one to 1.5 kilometers apart will make up the 11-kilometer tram service.
At an estimated cost of Rs. 27 billion, the project is modeled after the contemporary tram systems seen in China and Finland. Prominent locations such as Main Boulevard from Kalma Chowk, Liberty, Main Market, Mini Market, and Hali Road will all be connected by the tram route.
MM Alam Road will become a one-way street to make room for the tram, adding to the area’s overall beauty. Sports enthusiasts and event attendees will also be served by a dedicated stop at Gaddafi Stadium. The tram service’s ticket costs will be disclosed closer to the time of start.
