WE are already experiencing the wrath of climate change, but are bent on destroying whatever green cover we have. The Yellow Line project will require cutting of 1,400 mature trees along the canal bank in Lahore. About 2,100 trees have already been chopped down for making the signal-free corridor, Lahore Orange Line Metro train and Canal Road widening project.

The Punjab chief minister is doing great work for the province and its people. How about making Yellow Line on top of the canal without cutting a single tree out of the 1,400 planned. Trees may require a little bit of trimming that the trees will not mind. Trees can be made to grow more towards the road on either side, converting canal bank into an avenue with shade. Yellow Line passengers will enjoy the green ride, and tree-lovers like me will adore it.

Just imagine a train running on top of the canal surrounded by lush green trees some bearing flowers and others bearing fruits, and there being zero environmental damage. It will be the first of its kind train in the world. It will get Pakistan recognition from international nature conservation bodies, and people around the world will love to replicate the design.

S. Nayyar Iqbal Raza
Karachi

Published in Dawn, Aug 2nd, 2025