The proposed electric tram project in Lahore, promoted as a modern and eco-friendly transport solution, is facing delays and has not yet moved beyond the planning stage.
Earlier this year, the government announced the tram service along the Lahore Canal corridor and even carried out an initial trial run. The project aims to introduce electric trams on several important routes across the city to improve urban transport.
However, despite the early progress, the project has slowed down because of environmental concerns and financial challenges. One of the biggest obstacles has come from environmental groups.
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The Lahore Bachao Committee has announced plans to approach the court to stop the cutting of trees along the canal route. Environmental activists believe that removing trees could damage the city’s natural beauty and worsen pollution.
According to them, hundreds of mature trees along the canal may be affected if the project moves forward in its current form. They argue that these trees are important for cooling the city and improving air quality.
On the other hand, many residents support the tram project and want it to begin as soon as possible. Citizens say Lahore urgently needs better public transport because traffic congestion has become a daily problem.
A resident, Kashif Tariq, said people were excited about the project when it was announced, but since then only a trial run has taken place and no visible progress has been seen. Another citizen, Amir Mahmood from Johar Town, also expressed support.
“The project is excellent and will provide great convenience to people, especially since buses are already insufficient in Lahore,” he said. Transport experts say the city currently faces a shortage of nearly 1,500 buses.
Because of this shortage, commuters believe a tram system could make daily travel easier and reduce traffic congestion. Many people also think the electric tram could help reduce pollution since it runs on electricity rather than fuel.
Sources say the project is expected to cost billions of rupees. The expenses include construction of tram tracks, building stations and purchasing modern electric trams. Officials said the vehicles would likely be imported from abroad, with discussions held with China and several European countries.
However, financial limitations and technical planning issues have slowed progress. Civil society representatives say environmental concerns remain the most sensitive issue.
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Abdullah Malik, head of a civil society organization, said the dense trees along the canal are a major hurdle for the project. He warned that removing them could harm the city’s environment.
Environmental groups are now demanding that the government review the plan and consider alternative routes that would not require cutting trees. Officials from the transport department say the project has not been cancelled.
Instead, it is currently being reviewed to improve planning and balance development with environmental protection. Authorities are also considering alternative tree plantation programs to compensate for any potential loss of greenery.
According to officials, the tram system will require a dedicated track and will cover a route of about 27 kilometers.
The service is expected to carry more than 300 passengers per tram and include multiple stations along the route. Officials say the project could be completed within a year once final approval is granted.
