The Punjab Transport Department has initiated plans for Pakistan’s first fully underground metro train service, known as the Blue Line Metro Project, aimed at modernizing urban transport in Lahore.
According to government sources, the 27-kilometre metro line will run from Valencia Town to Babu Sabu Chowk and will include underground stations at Johar Town, Faisal Town, Garden Town, Kalma Chowk, Gulberg, Jail Road, Ferozepur Road, Wahdat Road, and Allama Iqbal Town.
Officials say the project is expected to serve more than 250,000 passengers daily, significantly easing traffic congestion and improving commuting across the city.
Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has directed the provincial transport minister to fast-track the feasibility and design process. Once completed, the report will outline the total project cost, financing structure, and construction timeline.
Initial estimates suggest the project will exceed Rs600 billion, with specialized tunneling machines capable of digging around six meters per day during construction.
Sources confirmed that financial institutions from China, Japan, and France have expressed interest in supporting the project. Earlier feasibility studies were conducted by the Japan International Cooperation Agency and Turkish consultants in 2016, followed by another comprehensive transport study completed in June 2024.
While the original proposal suggested 12 kilometers of underground track, the finalized Blue Line route will now be completely underground.
Authorities aim to complete the project within three years, with initial funding and PC-I approval expected in the 2026-27 budget. Officials believe the project will modernize Lahore’s transport infrastructure and significantly improve mobility for residents.
