Islamabad to Get Electric Tram Service
Islamabad is now planning to launch a modern electric tram service in Islamabad, which will change how people travel in the city. The Capital Development Authority (CDA) wants to introduce a clean and smart transport system that supports both the environment and daily commuters. After the success of the electric bus network, this new tram service is expected to further modernize the city’s public transport.
Officials say that this project will provide a comfortable, fast, and eco-friendly way to travel, especially for women, students, and differently-abled passengers. A full feasibility study is already in progress to decide routes and technical details. If approved, Islamabad will join the list of smart cities using electric trams to reduce traffic and pollution.
Project Overview and Feasibility Study
The electric tram service in Islamabad is being developed by the Capital Development Authority (CDA) under the leadership of Chairman Muhammad Ali Randhawa. This project is part of a larger vision to improve the public transport system in Islamabad and reduce traffic problems. The tram service will not only offer a modern way to travel but also support the city’s goal to become more environmentally friendly.
To begin the project, the CDA has started a detailed feasibility study. This study looks at the financial costs, business model, and technical plans needed to run the electric tram smoothly. The goal is to make the system self-sustaining so it doesn’t rely completely on government money. Officials have also shared that a Chinese consultancy firm may help with planning the project. The study will also explore public-private partnerships (PPP) to support funding and long-term success.
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Proposed Routes and Tram Technology
For the new electric tram service in Islamabad, the CDA has selected some of the busiest routes in the city to reduce daily traffic pressure and help people reach major locations quickly. Right now, four routes are under consideration in the first phase of the project. These include:
Planned Tram Routes in Islamabad
| Route No. | Starting Point | Ending Point | Main Road Used |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Rawat | Faisal Mosque | Islamabad Expressway |
| 2 | Jinnah Square | Islamabad International Airport | Srinagar Highway |
| 3 | Sector F-11 | Faizabad | Margalla Road |
| 4 | IJP Road Terminal | G-6 Blue Area | IJP Road & 9th Avenue |
These routes were selected based on high commuter traffic, easy road availability, and future urban development plans. Once the feasibility is complete, final decisions will be made on which routes to launch first.
Another exciting part of the project is the possible use of Soft Wheel Electric Trams. These are special types of trams that run on rubber tires instead of heavy rail tracks. This technology is cheaper to install, quieter, and better for city roads. It also allows faster implementation without digging up roads for steel tracks, making the process smooth and less disturbing for daily commuters.
Features and Benefits of the Tram Service
The upcoming electric tram service in Islamabad is designed to offer not just transport, but comfort, safety, and sustainability for all kinds of passengers. It will bring many benefits to the people of Islamabad and also help the city move toward a more modern and eco-friendly transport system.
Key Features of the Tram Service
- Electric-Powered: The trams will run entirely on electricity, helping reduce air pollution and fuel costs.
- Multiple Compartments: Each tram will have more than one section to carry a large number of passengers, especially during rush hours.
- Inclusive Design: Special seating and easy access will be provided for differently-abled passengers and women.
- Digital Terminals: Modern screens will be installed at tram stations to show live schedules, safety instructions, and ads.
- Smart Ticketing: A digital payment system will allow people to buy tickets easily using mobile apps or smart cards.
- Safe & Punctual: Trams will follow fixed routes and schedules, making them reliable and safe for daily use.
Benefits to Citizens
| Benefit | Description |
|---|---|
| Less Air Pollution | Electric trams create zero emissions, helping improve air quality. |
| Comfortable Commute | Smooth ride with proper seating and temperature control. |
| Affordable Travel | Lower operating costs mean cheaper fares for daily passengers. |
| Traffic Reduction | Trams will reduce the number of cars and bikes on busy roads. |
| Time-Saving | Fixed schedules will help people plan their travel better. |
| Job Creation | New transport systems bring employment opportunities. |
These features show that the new tram system will not only make traveling easier but also support Islamabad’s vision of becoming a cleaner, smarter, and greener city.
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Integration with Electric Bus System and Future Plans
The electric tram service in Islamabad is not being launched alone. It will be closely linked with the city’s already running electric bus system, which has become a big success with over 90,000 daily passengers. The idea is to create a connected public transport network where buses and trams support each other and help people reach their destinations faster.
How Trams and Buses Will Work Together
- Feeder Routes: Electric buses will be used as feeder services to bring passengers from local areas to the main tram stations.
- Unified Ticketing System: Passengers may use one smart card or app to pay for both buses and trams, making travel easier.
- Shared Digital Platforms: Real-time bus and tram information will be available through digital screens and a mobile app.
- Bus Stop Upgrades: Around 140 existing bus stops are being upgraded, and 200+ new smart stops will be built with digital boards and solar-powered lights.
Future Plans by CDA
| Planned Project | Description |
|---|---|
| Electric Hearse Bus | A unique service for transporting deceased persons in an eco-friendly way. |
| Employee Shuttle Service | Four electric buses will be reserved for CDA staff transportation. |
| Public-Private Partnership (PPP) | CDA is planning to involve private companies for funding and operation. |
| Revenue Generation Systems | In-bus ads, digital screens, and smart ticketing for extra funds. |
| Expansion of Tram Network | More tram routes may be added after success of the first phase. |
These steps show that the government is serious about building a long-lasting and self-sustaining transport system in the capital.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the electric tram service in Islamabad?
The electric tram service in Islamabad is a new public transport project by the CDA to provide eco-friendly and modern travel options for the city’s residents. It will use electricity instead of fuel and offer comfortable, safe, and fast transport.
Which routes will the electric trams cover?
In the first phase, four main routes are being planned, including:
- Rawat to Faisal Mosque via Expressway
- Jinnah Square to Islamabad Airport via Srinagar Highway
More routes will be added in later phases.
When will the tram service start in Islamabad?
Right now, a feasibility study is being done. Once it’s complete and approved, construction and service rollout will begin. No exact date has been given yet.
Will the trams be accessible for women and disabled persons?
Yes. CDA has clearly said the new trams will have special features like easy access and reserved spaces for women, elderly, and differently-abled passengers.
Will the tram and bus system be connected?
Yes. The electric tram service will work with the existing electric bus system using feeder routes, shared digital schedules, and possibly a unified ticket system.
What is a Soft Wheel Electric Tram?
It’s a tram that runs on rubber wheels instead of steel rails. This helps reduce construction costs and allows quicker setup without disturbing roads too much.
Who is funding the tram project?
The project may be funded using a public-private partnership model. CDA is also exploring international help, and a Chinese firm might assist in the planning stage.
Conclusion
The upcoming electric tram service in Islamabad is a big and bold step toward building a cleaner, smarter, and more connected capital city. With the success of the electric bus system already showing how much people want better public transport, the tram project will take things even further. It will make traveling in Islamabad faster, safer, and more comfortable, especially for those who rely on public transport daily.
This system is not just about moving people—it’s also about protecting the environment, creating jobs, and modernizing how our cities work. If planned and executed well, the electric tram service can become a model for other cities in Pakistan. And with smart ideas like Soft Wheel trams, digital ticketing, and inclusive access, Islamabad is truly on the path to becoming a green urban hub.
As citizens, we can play our part by supporting such eco-friendly projects, using public transport more often, and helping make Islamabad a city we can all be proud of.
