Pakistan’s First Electric Tram Service: Route Announced and Project Details

Pakistan is stepping into a new era of sustainable urban transport with the announcement of the first electric tram service. Lahore, the country’s cultural and economic hub, will pilot this state-of-the-art tram service, marking a significant milestone in advancing eco-friendly public transit options to tackle urban congestion and air pollution.

What is the Electric Tram Project?

The recently inaugurated electric tram service showcases state-of-the-art trams imported from China, crafted to function as a contemporary, zero-emission urban transport solution. This program enhances Lahore’s current forward-thinking transportation system, which features the Metro Bus service, Orange Line Metro Train, and electric buses.

Key Features of the Electric Tram

• Capacity: Each tram has a three-compartment design capable of carrying up to 250 passengers.
• Energy Efficiency: It runs entirely on electricity and can travel up to 27 kilometers after only a 10-minute charge.
• Technology: The tram includes digital navigation systems and can operate autonomously but will initially be driven manually for safety.
• Infrastructure: Designed to run on regular city roads without requiring rails, minimizing infrastructure overhaul.

The assembly of the first tram is underway at the Ali Town depot in Lahore, with a pilot service planned to start soon along Canal Road and a separate proposed route from Thokar Niaz Baig to Harbanspura.

Announced Routes and Project Phases

Primary Pilot Route

• Canal Road: The first pilot project will have the trams operating along Lahore’s main Canal Road.

Proposed Route for Service Expansion

• Thokar Niaz Baig to Harbanspura: This route has been proposed for the first operational run during the pilot phase, reportedly offered free of charge to commuters initially, before switching to a paid fare system if the pilot proves successful.

Authorities are optimistic that service will soon expand beyond Lahore, with Gujranwala also slated for tram introduction soon.

Importance of the Electric Tram Service in Pakistan

Environmental Benefits

• Supports carbon emissions reduction by replacing fossil fuel-based vehicles with zero-emission electric trams.
• Helps combat urban air pollution, a major health concern in cities like Lahore and Islamabad.

Economic and Social Impact

• Facilitates efficient daily commuting for hundreds of passengers, reducing traffic congestion and travel times.
• Encourages green public transport adoption, complementing Pakistan’s growing electric bus fleet and metro systems.

Government and Organizational Support

• The Punjab Transport Ministry and Lahore city officials are leading the effort, with cooperation from Chinese manufacturers and technical experts for tram assembly and deployment.
• The Capital Development Authority (CDA) Islamabad is also carrying out feasibility studies for introducing electric trams, showing interest in electric tram options.

Related Developments: Electric Trams in Islamabad

CDA is planning to launch its own electric tram service in Islamabad. Feasibility studies are underway to assess routes such as Rawat to Faisal Mosque and Jinnah Square to the Airport, highlighting a broader national push toward eco-friendly public transport infrastructures.