With another development to promote tourism in a home to many historical landmarks, the old historical and cultural city Lahore, the Punjab government is set to launch five new hybrid double-decker buses on new routes.
In Lahore, the route for the three new tourist buses will extend from Qaddafi Stadium to various sightseeing spots. Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz stated that modern and environmentally friendly buses will be provided for metropolitan tourism throughout Punjab.
The double-decker bus service under the Tourism Development Corporation of Punjab (TDCP) began in November 2015 during the tenure of former Chief Minister Shahbaz Sharif. These tourist buses cater to a diverse group, including academics, diplomats, state guests, corporate sector representatives, celebrities, and the general public, allowing them to explore various tourist attractions.
The double-decker bus services will also be extended to Multan and Faisalabad to enhance tourism in these cities. During the launch event, Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz inspected the hybrid double-decker bus and took a ride, while relevant officials briefed her on the service.
Rawalpindi-Lahore High-Speed Train
The provincial government is considering building a high-speed rail line connecting Lahore and Rawalpindi.
The proposed high-speed rail is expected to travel at speeds of up to 250 kilometres per hour. This would reduce the travel time between Lahore and Rawalpindi to less than two hours. The project is estimated to cost around $1.6 billion.
The government is currently reviewing a proposal for the project. If approved, it would be a significant step forward for Pakistan’s infrastructure. The high-speed rail would offer a faster and more convenient travel option for people living and working in these cities.
However, funding for the project remains a challenge. The government will need to secure significant financing to make it a reality. Also, it is important to note that this plan is still confined to the proposal stage.