China’s North Industries Corporation (Norinco International) is ready to introduce Pakistan’s first Super Autonomous Rapid Transit (SRT) system in Lahore following the success of the Orange Line Metro Rail Transit system, officials confirmed as the trackless solar-powered tram reached the provincial capital for the launching ceremony.
During a visit of the site, the officials told Risala Today that the SRT system was based on the virtual track technology – a flexible and digitally-guided system designed for the modern urban environment. They said that China’s company showcased its expertise and commitment to transforming transportation in Pakistan with this eco-friendly transit solution.
The officials stated that China, Turkey, Qatar, Malaysia and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) have already introduced the super autonomous rapid transit system before its launch in Pakistan. In China, the SRT system was first introduced in Jiangsu province in 2021, while the system has received the Zhan Tianyou Award – the highest scientific and technological recognition in the field of civil engineering – from the China Civil Engineering Society.
Three interconnected compartments of eco-friendly innovative tram will carry more than 200 passengers
As per initial reports, a demonstration of the first electric tram is expected in the second week of August at the Lahore Expo Centre. During the trial phase, the tram would be operated from Thokar Niaz Baig to Harbanspura so that the officials will monitor and assess whether a dedicated lane is necessary along the Canal Road. Basically, the vehicle was designed to operate alongside the regular traffic without requiring significant infrastructure changes, they said.
The three interconnected compartments of the tram – that can travel up to 27 kilometers on a 10-minute charge – would have a capacity to carry more than 200 passengers. The officials said that the tram would be manually-operated by trained drivers due to safety considerations. The initiative is part of Punjab’s five-year transport modernization strategy approved earlier this year. The advanced vehicles will feature Wi-Fi, CCTV surveillance, and rapid charging capabilities at solar-powered smart stations.
After its success in Lahore, the tram system may be expanded to Faisalabad, Gujranwala and other cities, Bilal Akbar Khan, the provincial minister for transport, told journalists while talking about the new project. The super autonomous rapid transit system is not just about technology, but it’s about creating a smarter, greener, and more connected city to enhance mobility in Lahore that is facing daily challenges of traffic congestion, air pollution, and urban sprawl.
With a vision of facilitating sustainable development, economic growth, and better quality of life for citizens, the Norinco International plans to bring more mobility innovations to Lahore and beyond. The company is a key player in implementing China’s Belt and Road Initiative, focusing on international engineering projects, specialized product trade, and investment and financing. It has a global presence, particularly in the Middle East and Africa, and is involved in various sectors, including rail transportation, power engineering, and petroleum and mining facilities.
