The Punjab government has once again revised the route of Lahore’s first electric tram project, leading to further delays in the launch of the much-anticipated public transport initiative.
According to officials, the latest proposed route will now pass through the Central Business District (CBD), Gulberg, Jail Road, and Istanbul Chowk. The previously planned Canal Road alignment has been removed from the project due to environmental and technical concerns.
Authorities stated that the decision was taken to avoid large-scale tree cutting and to address construction challenges associated with laying tram infrastructure along Canal Road.
Punjab Transport Minister Bilal Akbar said the electric tram was first brought to Lahore in July 2025 and later showcased during a test run and public exhibition at the Expo Centre Lahore in August 2025.
The project has undergone multiple revisions since its initial announcement. Early plans outlined a 27-kilometre “Yellow Line” corridor stretching from Thokar Niaz Baig to Harbanspura. However, the route has since been repeatedly modified as planners reassessed traffic flow, environmental impact, and urban infrastructure requirements.
Officials later explored alternative designs, including a trackless tram system, and considered routes passing through Kalma Chowk, Liberty Market, Main Market, Mini Market, and Hali Road.
Despite ongoing development efforts, the repeated changes in planning have delayed the project’s implementation, and authorities have not yet announced a final operational timeline.
The electric tram initiative remains part of Punjab’s broader strategy to modernize Lahore’s public transport system and introduce environmentally friendly mobility solutions. However, uncertainty continues to surround its completion due to ongoing revisions in the project design.
