MARYAM NAWAZ ANNOUNCES LAHORE’S FIRST TRAM SERVICE UNDER ‘SHOP AND RIDE’ PROJECT

Lahore, Pakistan:The Punjab government has announced an exciting new initiative for the residents of Lahore – the launch of the city’s very first tram service, set to be operational by 2025. Under the leadership of Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz, this ambitious project, called “Shop and Ride Tram,” aims to provide a modern and efficient mode of transportation for the citizens of Lahore.

According to sources within the Punjab government, the Lahore Development Authority (LDA) has already begun working on the feasibility study for the tram service. Previously, a tram route was proposed that spanned 11 kilometers, covering key areas like Kalma Chowk, Main Blue Road, MM Alam Road, Hussian Chowk, and Hall Road, with a stop every 1 to 1.5 kilometers. However, a new feasibility plan is being developed for an updated and expanded route.

The newly proposed tram service will run from Thokar Niaz Baig to Harbanspura, covering a 24-kilometer-long track, with routes being developed on both sides of the canal. The service will have 13 to 14 stops along the way, ensuring greater accessibility for the public.

The initial estimated cost for the tram project is around 50 to 60 billion rupees, and advanced models from Finland and China are being studied for its design. The tram will also feature a special stop within the iconic Gaddafi Stadium.

While the ticket pricing has yet to be decided, the provincial government is considering electric, hybrid, or battery-operated trams for the service to ensure environmental sustainability and energy efficiency.

Maryam Nawaz has expressed her commitment to completing the project within one year, with work on the tram set to begin shortly. This new tram service is expected to significantly ease the transportation burden on Lahore’s residents and contribute to the city’s growing infrastructure development.