LAHORE: A meeting of the Punjab Transport Department with stakeholders, chaired by Punjab Minister of Transport and Mass Transit Bilal Akbar, discussed an integrated mass transit plan for Lahore.

To address city’s surging congestion, compounded by a 3.06 per cent population increase in 2024 and an average traffic congestion index of 21.72 over the past 30 days, the government aims to explore innovative solutions beyond conventional flyovers and underpasses.

Discussions revolved around an elevated expressway linking both established and emerging city areas with Ruda and PCBDA.

Participants also discussed the 2016 TMA recommendations for green, orange, blue and purple lines, along with the implementation of a bus rapid transit system.

Proposals encompass the integration of the Metrobus service with green and blue lines, alongside the introduction of electric buses and dedicated bicycle tracks.

Published in Dawn, April 18th, 2024