Islamabad Fast-Tracks Electric Tram Project with Three-Month Feasibility Deadline

By Tanveer Ahmed :

Authorities in Pakistan’s capital have set a firm timeline for advancing a long-discussed electric tram system, with officials now required to complete feasibility studies within the next three months.

Federal Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi issued the directive during an event marking the launch of new electric bus infrastructure at Zero Point. The project represents the latest effort to expand environmentally friendly public transport options in Islamabad.

Study Details and Routes

The Capital Development Authority has tasked the National University of Sciences and Technology with conducting the comprehensive assessment. Officials outlined two primary corridors under consideration for the tram network.

The first proposed route would connect Islamabad International Airport with Lake View Park, while the second would run from Rawat to the same lakeside destination. This terminal point holds additional significance as the planned starting location for the proposed Murree Glass Train project, which could eventually create a linked tourism corridor between the capital and the nearby hill station.

History and Intent

Discussions about introducing a tram system in Islamabad have circulated within development circles for years without material progress. The current deadline suggests increased determination among officials to transform the concept into reality.

During a January meeting chaired by CDA Chairman Muhammad Ali Randhawa, authority members decided to prioritise both the tram and electric bus initiatives as part of broader efforts to introduce eco-friendly transit options. Officials emphasised that any implemented system should incorporate modern technology, including digital and cashless operations.

The feasibility study has been directed to consider connections with key locations across the capital, particularly the international airport, while incorporating current ridership data and future demand projections.

Infrastructure Plans

Proposals for the tram project include development of modern facilities such as depots, parking areas, charging stations, and maintenance workshops. Authorities have also been instructed to explore carbon credit opportunities during the planning phase to support the environmental objectives of the initiative.

CDA officials describe the project as potentially historic, offering modern transportation facilities to residents while contributing to reduced pollution levels in the capital.

Expanding Electric Transport

The tram announcement coincides with ongoing expansion of Islamabad’s electric bus network. All 160 electric buses are currently operational, carrying approximately 125,000 passengers daily. The newly opened Zero Point depot features 50 installed chargers with 14 more planned, each capable of charging two buses within two hours.

Minister Naqvi travelled on an electric bus during his visit and directed officials to work toward doubling daily ridership while focusing on accessibility for students and elderly passengers. He noted that the combination of electric bus and metro services is helping address transportation challenges and commuter needs.

Rail Link Consideration

Separately, authorities are examining the possibility of restoring railway service between Rawalpindi and Islamabad. Following initial assessments, the proposed service would operate between Margalla Railway Station and Saddar Rawalpindi.

Officials acknowledge the need for careful planning, noting that a similar service launched in the 1990s between the same stations was discontinued within three months due to insufficient passenger numbers.

Connected Vision

The various transport initiatives reflect an integrated approach to mobility in the capital region. The proposed glass train project, which would connect with the tram system at Lake View Park, received attention during a recent meeting attended by political leadership. Officials agreed in principle to extend that project from Islamabad Airport to Muzaffarabad, with bidding for the monorail component expected in March.

Minister Naqvi has instructed the CDA to complete the tram feasibility work within the specified three-month window, after which authorities will determine the next steps for implementation.