Punjab Development News

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Punjab to roll out dedicated buses for rural women​

Punjab CM Maryam Nawaz announces mass transit system for rural women, with plans for 25 buses.

News Desk
March 01, 2025

Photo: Radio Pakistan

Punjab government has announced the launch of special bus services for rural women, a crucial step towards improving transportation accessibility in the province.

The decision aims to address the ongoing challenges faced by women living in rural areas, where a lack of reliable public transport has long been a barrier to their mobility, Express News reported.

Under the new plan, a dedicated bus service will operate from each rural tehsil to the district headquarters.

Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif has also requested the development of an inter-village transport plan to further enhance connectivity.

Additionally, the government is reviewing a proposal to introduce a mass transit system consisting of 25 buses for remote districts, which will be implemented in phases.

 

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During a meeting held on Thursday, the chief minister approved a five-year transport programme aimed at modernising the province's public transit infrastructure. Officials briefed her on the Automated Rapid Transit (ART) system, which has been successfully implemented in countries such as Abu Dhabi, Malaysia, and Qatar.

The meeting's participants were informed that the ART is among the most sustainable public transport systems globally.

The trackless electric buses used in this system are considered more efficient than conventional public transport, including the articulated buses currently operating in metro services in Lahore, Rawalpindi, and Multan. These vehicles can operate on standard roads within dedicated lanes, eliminating the need for specialised tracks or rail systems.

Additionally, the ART system requires less space compared to traditional buses.

 

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Trackless e-buses to hit Punjab roads​

Maryam approves plan to roll out Automated Rapid Transit

Imran Adnan
February 28, 2025

Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz inspects a ramp for differently-abled passengers in an electric bus which is set to ply on the roads in Lahore. photo: express

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LAHORE
: The Punjab government has announced a plan to introduce tram-like trackless electric buses as part of a new sustainable public transport initiative.

Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has directed the provincial transport department to begin preliminary trials for the system.

During a meeting held on Thursday, the chief minister approved a five-year transport programme aimed at modernising the province's public transit infrastructure. Officials briefed her on the Automated Rapid Transit (ART) system, which has been successfully implemented in countries such as Abu Dhabi, Malaysia, and Qatar.

The meeting's participants were informed that the ART is among the most sustainable public transport systems globally.

The trackless electric buses used in this system are considered more efficient than conventional public transport, including the articulated buses currently operating in metro services in Lahore, Rawalpindi, and Multan. These vehicles can operate on standard roads within dedicated lanes, eliminating the need for specialised tracks or rail systems.

Additionally, the ART system requires less space compared to traditional buses.

According to the briefing, each ART bus will consist of three coaches, accommodating 250 to 300 passengers. The buses will feature fast-charging, Wi-Fi connectivity, and CCTV surveillance.

Charging will be completed within minutes while stationed at ART smart stations. It was also proposed that the entire ART system would be powered by solar energy, making it an eco-friendly transportation solution.

 

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"We aim to complete the Automated Rapid Transit project across Punjab within four years.

Every city deserves access to a modern transport system. This initiative will help bridge disparities and enhance the quality of life for residents," she stated.

The system is a state-of-the-art, trackless electric bus network designed to offer a sustainable and efficient alternative to traditional public transport.

Unlike conventional buses, ART vehicles operate on dedicated lanes without requiring tracks or rail infrastructure. These advanced buses combine the flexibility of a bus with the efficiency of a tram, making them an ideal solution for urban transit systems.

First introduced in cities such as Abu Dhabi, Malaysia, and Qatar, ART has gained global recognition for its ability to reduce congestion, lower emissions, and provide a smooth commuting experience.

 

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Pakistan, Japan sign $3.5mn agreement for installation of smart water meters​

BR Web Desk
May 14, 2025

The Government of Japan approved on Wednesday an amount of JPY 510 million ($3.5 million) for Economic and Social Development Program for Provision of Smart Water Meters for improved water supply in Faisalabad.

In a press release, the Ministry of Economic Affairs said that the installation of around 8,000 smart water meters in Faisalabad will not only enhance the efficiency of water usage and distribution, “but also contribute to better demand management, conservation of precious water resources and financial sustainability of Water and Sanitation Agency Faisalabad”.

The statement said that this grant aligns with the government’s vision for improved urban governance and environmental sustainability, and “we are confident that it will serve as a model for replication in other cities as well”.

The exchange of notes were signed and exchanged by Secretary, Ministry of Economic Affairs, Dr Kazim Niaz, and Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Japan to Pakistan, Akamatsu Shuichi, on behalf of their respective governments.

Dr Kazim Niaz, appreciated Japan for their valuable support with the assurance of extending all necessary facilitation to ensure the successful implementation of the project and for more meaningful cooperation between the two sides.

Moreover, Shuichi assured the commitment of his government to work closely with Pakistan to further strengthen the friendly ties and bilateral cooperation.

 

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Lahore set to launch Pakistan's first electric tram​

If successful, the tram system may be expanded to other cities, including Faisalabad and Gujranwala

Imran Adnan
July 23, 2025

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LAHORE: Lahore is set to see electric trams on its roads, marking a new milestone following the Metro Bus, Orange Line Metro Train, Speedo feeder buses, and Electro Green buses. The first electric tram, imported from China, has arrived in the city and is currently being assembled at the Ali Town Depot.

Officials said the tram, designed to operate without a conventional rail track, will initially run as a pilot project along the Canal Road. A demonstration for senior government officials and transport specialists is expected in the first or second week of August at the Lahore Expo Centre.

The state-of-the-art tram consists of three interconnected compartments and can carry more than 200 passengers. Fully electric, it can travel up to 27 kilometres on a 10-minute charge.

Although capable of autonomous operation through a digital navigation system, it will be manually operated by drivers in Pakistan due to safety considerations. The vehicle is equipped with steering controls and is designed to operate alongside regular traffic without requiring significant infrastructure changes.

“This is the latest technology, recently introduced in cities like Abu Dhabi and two Chinese urban centres, and soon to begin operations in Budapest,” said Punjab Transport Minister Bilal Akbar Khan. “We are optimistic that Lahore and Gujranwala will see this service before Budapest.”

The minister added that the tram would operate along the Canal Road corridor, from Thokar Niaz Baig to Harbanspura, during the trial phase. Authorities will monitor the tram's interaction with existing traffic and assess whether a dedicated lane is necessary.

However, constructing such a lane could involve cutting trees and road expansion — options the government aims to avoid to keep project costs under control. A test run is also proposed for Main Boulevard, Gulberg.

If successful, the tram system may be expanded to other cities, including Faisalabad and Gujranwala, during the current fiscal year.

The initiative is part of Punjab's five-year transport modernisation strategy approved earlier this year. At a February meeting chaired by Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz, officials outlined plans for an Automated Rapid Transit (ART) system, a cutting-edge, trackless electric bus network modelled after systems already operational in Abu Dhabi, Malaysia, and Qatar.

The ART vehicles will feature three coaches, accommodating up to 300 passengers, with onboard Wi-Fi, CCTV surveillance, and rapid charging capabilities at solar-powered smart stations. The system is designed to reduce the need for specialised tracks, making it cost-efficient and space-saving.

“The goal is to introduce modern public transportation not just in major urban centres, but also in smaller cities across Punjab,” said the CM. “This initiative will improve quality of life and reduce disparities across the province.”

The ART system is expected to be rolled out in 10 cities over three phases, beginning with Lahore, Faisalabad, and Gujranwala.

 

[ghazi52]

Lahore set to launch Pakistan's first electric tram​

If successful, the tram system may be expanded to other cities, including Faisalabad and Gujranwala

Imran Adnan
July 23, 2025

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LAHORE: Lahore is set to see electric trams on its roads, marking a new milestone following the Metro Bus, Orange Line Metro Train, Speedo feeder buses, and Electro Green buses. The first electric tram, imported from China, has arrived in the city and is currently being assembled at the Ali Town Depot.

Officials said the tram, designed to operate without a conventional rail track, will initially run as a pilot project along the Canal Road. A demonstration for senior government officials and transport specialists is expected in the first or second week of August at the Lahore Expo Centre.

The state-of-the-art tram consists of three interconnected compartments and can carry more than 200 passengers. Fully electric, it can travel up to 27 kilometres on a 10-minute charge.

Although capable of autonomous operation through a digital navigation system, it will be manually operated by drivers in Pakistan due to safety considerations. The vehicle is equipped with steering controls and is designed to operate alongside regular traffic without requiring significant infrastructure changes.

“This is the latest technology, recently introduced in cities like Abu Dhabi and two Chinese urban centres, and soon to begin operations in Budapest,” said Punjab Transport Minister Bilal Akbar Khan. “We are optimistic that Lahore and Gujranwala will see this service before Budapest.”

The minister added that the tram would operate along the Canal Road corridor, from Thokar Niaz Baig to Harbanspura, during the trial phase. Authorities will monitor the tram's interaction with existing traffic and assess whether a dedicated lane is necessary.

However, constructing such a lane could involve cutting trees and road expansion — options the government aims to avoid to keep project costs under control. A test run is also proposed for Main Boulevard, Gulberg.

If successful, the tram system may be expanded to other cities, including Faisalabad and Gujranwala, during the current fiscal year.

The initiative is part of Punjab's five-year transport modernisation strategy approved earlier this year. At a February meeting chaired by Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz, officials outlined plans for an Automated Rapid Transit (ART) system, a cutting-edge, trackless electric bus network modelled after systems already operational in Abu Dhabi, Malaysia, and Qatar.

The ART vehicles will feature three coaches, accommodating up to 300 passengers, with onboard Wi-Fi, CCTV surveillance, and rapid charging capabilities at solar-powered smart stations. The system is designed to reduce the need for specialised tracks, making it cost-efficient and space-saving.

“The goal is to introduce modern public transportation not just in major urban centres, but also in smaller cities across Punjab,” said the CM. “This initiative will improve quality of life and reduce disparities across the province.”

The ART system is expected to be rolled out in 10 cities over three phases, beginning with Lahore, Faisalabad, and Gujranwala.

 

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Inaugurated the first School of Excellence in Chakwal, completed in under a year and now home to 1,400 deserving students. This state-of-the-art institution is equipped with modern educational facilities including a well-stocked library, fully equipped computer labs, and excellent sports infrastructure.

This is just the beginning. Similar Schools of Excellence are currently under construction in every district, with several nearing completion. Together, they represent a significant step forward in ensuring equitable access to world-class education for all.

 

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Nawaz Sharif Cardiology Centre in Murree,

 

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Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif inaugurated the new #sanitation fleet for all districts of Punjab, comprising 700 state-of-the-art #waste management vehicles and machines.

Suthra Punjab is not just the world’s largest waste management program, it is the realisation of my long-cherished dream.

With over 35000 pieces of state-of-the-art machinery and modern equipment, from de-silting machines, winching units, to sucker pumps, we have raised a silent army of 150,000 heroes in green armour.

 

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40 more buses to Lahore

 

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Chinese Agri Tech Set to Transform Punjab’s Farmlands as Rs.30 Billion Mechanization Drive Launches​

By Tahir Ali | Gwadar Pro
Oct 13, 2025

A central pivot irrigation system, one of the latest Chinese agricultural technologies. [Photo/BoP]

LAHORE: Chinese high-tech agricultural machinery is at the heart of Punjab’s bold new Rs. 30 billion mechanization program, launched last week to revolutionize farming across Pakistan’s largest food-producing province.

From advanced combine harvesters and rice transplanters to center-pivot irrigation systems and high-power tractors, dozens of Chinese manufacturers will supply cutting-edge equipment aimed at boosting productivity, reducing post-harvest losses, and lowering labor dependency in Punjab’s fields.

“We’re ushering in a revolutionary transformation in Punjab’s agriculture!” stated Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif at the launch ceremony. “Today, Alhamdolillah, we launched the Hi-Tech Mechanization Bank Financing Program, a groundbreaking initiative worth Rs. 30 billion to empower our farmers with the latest agricultural technology.

This is a major leap forward in modernizing our farming practices, improving productivity, and delivering real prosperity to our Kisaan. The future of farming in Punjab, the food basket of Pakistan, has arrived.”