ISLAMABAD: As the twin cities face major commute issues, PM Shehbaz Sharif has approved a rail car project for Islamabad-Rawalpindi residents.
As per details, the Prime Minister laid the foundation stone for the construction of T-Chowk Flyover, Rawalpindi.
Addressing the groundbreaking ceremony today, he said the project will be a significant milestone in improving traffic flow in the federal capital and its surrounding areas. He said the one-kilometer-long flyover and interventions to be made in this project to connect the Express Highway and other areas will certainly serve the public interest of the residents of Rawalpindi and Islamabad.
The Prime Minister further said Pakistan is hosting the upcoming Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) summit, stressing the urgent need to begin preparations. He underscored the importance of beautifying Islamabad ahead of the prestigious international event.
Additionally, Shehbaz Sharif directed the Ministry of Railways to develop a comprehensive plan to connect Rawalpindi and Islamabad via rail, aiming to enhance transportation and convenience for residents of the twin cities.
Earlier, speaking on the occasion, Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi said the project will be completed within one hundred and fifty days. He said separate teams have been formed to monitor the quality of project.
Besides, the Prime Minister was informed that the project will be completed at a cost of around 1.5 billion rupees.
Earlier in a separate development, Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif announced that modern electric buses will be introduced in every district of the province by the end of this year.
In a social media post, she revealed that 100 brand-new electric buses departed from Shanghai port for Pakistan. The consignment is expected to arrive in Punjab in the coming weeks, strengthening the provincial government’s vision for a modern and eco-friendly public transport system.
Comfortable and Affordable Travel
According to Maryam Nawaz, the new buses will feature climate-controlled interiors and CCTV cameras to ensure passenger safety and convenience. Each bus will have seating capacity for around 60 passengers, with affordable fares fixed at just Rs 20 per ride.
She described the initiative as an important step toward providing people with safe, modern, and eco-friendly transport. “Our goal is to ensure that every citizen has access to a comfortable and reliable journey at a reasonable cost,” she said.
A Step Toward Greener Urban Mobility
The launch of electric buses is being seen as a significant move toward greener urban mobility in Punjab. With growing concerns about air pollution and fuel costs, the introduction of electric transport could reduce emissions, cut reliance on fossil fuels, and promote sustainable city life.
Maryam Nawaz emphasized that expanding eco-friendly public transport aligns with Punjab’s broader climate action goals. She added that these buses will not only ease travel but also contribute to cleaner air and healthier living conditions.
Also read: New electric buses: Rs 20 fare, other features announced
