The next Islamabad-Rawalpindi Rail Service is ready to become the first friendly passenger rail link between the twin cities, which potentially acts as an electric vehicle (EV) train.
An important meeting on the railway service between Islamabad and Rawalpindi was the hero at the Capital Development Authority (CDA) headquarters on Wednesday, chaired by CDA Chairman and Chief Commissioner Islamabad, Mohammad Ali Randhwa.
During the meeting, it was confirmed that the CDA and the Pakistan Railways would soon sign a Memorandum of Understanding (sleeve) to launch a modern train service between the cities. The project will introduce a sophisticated train service that aims to improve transportation options.
The meeting included a detailed overview of the use of environmentally friendly technology for train setting, business models, and the EV train project. A letter was also provided on the Rydership survey taken for the move.
Randhwa stressed that the project would follow all the rules and regulations needed to include carbon credit. He also mentioned the service of other sectors of Islamabad where the existing railway network can be used, which further enhances the scope of the project.
Feeder buses will also be introduced, in which electric buses will be available at Margala Railway Station to ensure smooth integration of service. According to Randhwa, once it is completed, the project will significantly reduce traffic in both cities.
The purpose of the rail service is to provide affordable, safe and comfortable travel for citizens, which is implemented international standards and excellent methods. Randhwa further highlighted that the project will not only modernize transportation but will also help in the overall development of Islamabad.
The meeting was attended by CDA Board Member Engineering Syed Nafasat Raza, members planning and design Dr. Khalid Hafiz, as well as senior officials of Pakistan Railways and CDA.