Islamabad’s Capital Development Authority (CDA) is actively pursuing a collaboration with China Railway to introduce the capital city’s Light Rail Transit (LRT) system. LRT is well-known for its high-capacity electric trains that run on separate tracks.
CDA & China Railway Collab
CDA officials recently met with representatives from China Railway in this regard. Waseem Hayat Bajwa, member planning, indicated that the initial meeting was “very successful” and hinted at an anticipated breakthrough in upcoming meetings expected in the following 10 days.
LRT on 2 Critical Routes
The CDA intends to build the LRT on two critical routes: the Islamabad Motorway and the new airport to H-8. These routes were chosen for their strategic importance in alleviating the city’s increasing traffic congestion.
One noteworthy characteristic is the prospective use of existing railway tracks from H-8 to Golra, which increases the feasibility of the LRT system.
Furthermore, officials are exploring connecting these LRT routes with the city’s existing metro bus network.
China Railway’s Proposal
If China Railway’s proposal is accepted, both sides plan to sign a government-to-government agreement to move the project forward.
Japan overseas Cooperation Agency
CDA previously investigated money from overseas donors such as the Asian Development Bank and the Japan overseas Cooperation Agency (JICA).
However, China Railway has given new optimism for obtaining the required finance and skills.
The collaboration between CDA and China Railway has the potential to reshape the city’s public transport scene, providing people with a sustainable and efficient option.
To read our blog on “CDA to deploy 30 e-buses on Islamabad’s 13 different routes,” click here
