Islamabad, the capital city of Pakistan, is taking proactive steps to address its growing transportation needs by considering the introduction of a Light Rail Transit (LRT) system. The Capital Development Authority – CDA has initiated the planning process and is seeking funding from international donors such as the Asian Development Bank and the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA).
The Planning Wing of the CDA has presented a preliminary concept paper to the Economic Affairs Division in order to secure funding for the project. However, the senior officers have emphasized the importance of engaging a consultant to conduct a detailed feasibility study before proceeding further.
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The initial working has identified four potential routes for the LRT system. These routes include a 30.5km stretch from Rawat to Faisal Mosque on Islamabad Expressway and Faisal Avenue, a 13.7km route from N5 (commonly known as G.T road) to Pakistan Monument via Srinagar Highway, a 27.5km route from Rawat at T-Chowk to 26 No Stop on G.T road, and a 10.4km route from Pirwadhai to Faizabad via the IJP road. Initially, there was consideration given to utilizing the existing railway track in Islamabad; however, this idea was discarded as it was deemed inadequate due to its one-sided nature and the heavy traffic it already carries for Pakistan Railways.
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While the planning wing has made commendable progress in preparing for this project, it is important to note that the execution of such an endeavor entails significant funding and political stability. Therefore, it poses challenges that need to be carefully addressed.
In conclusion, the introduction of a Light Rail Transit system in Islamabad is being actively pursued by the CDA. The identification of potential routes and the pursuit of funding from international donors demonstrate the commitment of the city planners to meet the growing transportation needs. However, it is crucial to approach this project with caution and ensure all necessary factors, such as funding and political stability, are properly addressed.
In a recent conversation, Waseem Hayat Bajwa, Member Planning and Design of the CDA, has confirmed that the initial groundwork for the Light Rail Transit (LRT) system has commenced in the traffic engineering section of the authority. The CDA is actively pursuing funding from the Economic Affairs Division to execute this project and holds optimistic prospects, considering its viability for Islamabad. LRT is a high-capacity public transport system that operates on dedicated electric railways.
It is worth noting that developed countries implemented similar transport facilities nearly a century ago to enhance the convenience of their citizens. Examples include London’s world-famous underground railway system, the New York City Subway, and the Tokyo Subway.
The decision to introduce LRT in Islamabad is driven by the increasing burden of vehicles on the city’s roads. Traffic engineers have deemed the existing Bus Rapid Transport System (BRTS) insufficient to cope with the rising demand. Over the past few years, major roads in Islamabad have experienced severe traffic congestion during peak hours. Introducing LRT is seen as an effective solution to alleviate this burden, offering affordability and reduced travel time.
Overall, the CDA is making progress in its pursuit of the LRT system for Islamabad. By initiating the necessary groundwork and actively seeking funding, the authorities are demonstrating their commitment to addressing the city’s transportation challenges. The introduction of LRT holds the promise of easing traffic congestion and providing a more efficient and affordable mode of transportation for the residents of Islamabad.
RESEARCH AND WRITTEN BY:
SANAH ABBASI
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