🚋 A Revolutionary Step towards Green Public Transport
In July 2025, Pakistan achieved a milestone by launching its first-ever electric tram service in Lahore. Aimed at lessening urban traffic and carbon emissions, the project is a significant leap towards smart, sustainable, and modern transport in the nation’s cities.
The electric tram is an integral part of the Punjab Government’s five-year public transport modernization plan, covering green mobility options, enhanced access, and environmentally friendly urban infrastructure.
🔧 Major Highlights of the Lahore Electric Tram
- 100% Electric, Battery-Powered Tram
Operates without rails, with rubber wheels, and recharges in only 10 minutes to cover 25–27 kilometers. - Three-Carriage Modular Structure
Has three joined-up compartments per tram, accommodating a total of 200–250 passengers. - Smart Transport Technology
Fitted with Wi-Fi, CCTV cameras, GPS tracking, smart ticketing, and barrier-free design for women and differently-abled persons. - Eco-Friendly & Silent Operation
Zero emissions, zero noise pollution—the ideal solution for Lahore’s traffic-congested roads and environmental issues.
🏛️ Vision of the Government: Maryam Nawaz & PM Shehbaz Sharif Spearhead
The introduction of Pakistan’s first electric tram is testimony to the visionary leadership of Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. Maryam Nawaz, the first female Chief Minister of Punjab, has placed special emphasis on green urban mobility, contemporary infrastructure, and women-friendly transport systems. Her vision is very much in line with the federal government’s drive for innovation and sustainability under the leadership of Shehbaz Sharif. Together, they envision a smart, climate-resilient Pakistan where clean, efficient, and affordable public transport is available to everyone. The electric tram project is a key step toward that future.
📍 Pilot Route: Canal Road, Lahore
The first tram will run on a special route on Lahore’s Canal Road, stretching from Thokar Niaz Baig to Harbanspura. This stretch is one of the busiest in the city and is the most suited for testing the tram’s capacity, speed, and performance.
Test drives should start sometime in early August 2025, with public entry following not too long after.
🇨🇳 Partnerships with China: Technology Meets Transport
The model of the tram is imported from China and assembled at Lahore’s Ali Town Depot. Made using Automated Rapid Transit (ART) technology, the tram does not rely on steel tracks, making it easy to install and cost-effective.
Not only does this collaboration bring in Pakistan international-standard technology, but it also opens up new prospects for local capacity development and employment opportunities in transit infrastructure.
🌆 Plans to Expand: Beyond Lahore
The success of Lahore tram will open the doors to expansion in other cities. Punjab’s Transport Department informs us that:
- Feasibility studies are in progress for Faisalabad and Gujranwala.
- If pilot operations in Lahore go smoothly, additional routes and cities will be covered in Phase 2.
Meanwhile, Islamabad too is examining electric tram services with four possible routes being studied by CDA (Capital Development Authority).
♻️ Why This Tram Project is Important
- Reduces Traffic Congestion: A single tram can substitute 50+ automobiles on high-traffic roads.
- Combats Pollution: Electrical power decreases carbon footprint significantly.
- Economical for Commuters: Likely to be affordable and convenient for daily commuters.
- Inclusive Design: Women, elderly, and special people will be safe.
- Public-Private Partnership Model: Provides sustainable funding, operation, and maintenance.
📊 Quick Facts at a Glance
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Launch City | Lahore, Pakistan |
| Charging Time | 10 minutes |
| Travel Range per Charge | 25–27 km |
| Capacity | 200–250 passengers |
| Tech Used | Automated Rapid Transit (ART) |
| Key Route | Canal Road (Thokar to Harbanspura) |
| Future Cities | Faisalabad, Gujranwala, Islamabad |
💬 What People Are Saying
“I never thought I’d see a tram in Lahore. It’s sleek, quiet, and makes the city look modern!” — Awais Raza, commuter
“This is a game-changer for public transport. I hope we get to see more of this in other cities as well.” — Dr. Shazia Aslam, urban planner
🔮 The Road Ahead
Pakistan’s electric tram project is more than a new means of transportation—it’s a declaration of intent. With increasing fuel prices, growing pollution, and congested roads, this initiative presents a clean, green, and futuristic means of transportation for millions.
If the pilot project is successful, the tram network can revolutionize urban transport in Pakistan the way metro buses once did—but this time with no emissions and 100% electric energy.
✅ Last Word
Pakistan’s first electric tram isn’t merely a car—it’s a vision of the future. As it glides down the avenues of Lahore, it brings along the promise of cleaner air, quicker commutes, and more intelligent cities.
Whether you’re an environmentalist, policymaker, or commuter, this initiative has something for everyone—and marks that Pakistan is ready to go on, one electric track at a time.
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