The Faisalabad Development Authority (FDA) is making significant efforts toward implementing a Metro Bus Service system in Faisalabad, with an estimated project cost of Rs. 70 billion. Approved by the Punjab government, this initiative aims to offer residents a comfortable and affordable intra-city transport solution.
During a recent media briefing, FDA Director General Chaudhry Muhammad Asif outlined the project’s progress. He announced that initial planning phases, including a multi-dimensional survey, sectoral counts, and a comprehensive strategic transport framework, have been completed. This marks Faisalabad’s first large-scale public transport project of its kind.
Last week, a consultative workshop was held in Lahore, chaired by Punjab Minister for Transport and Mass Transit, Bilal Akbar Khan. The meeting included representatives from the Asian Development Bank (ADB) and transport and planning officials, who discussed the administrative and technical aspects of the Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system. Both international and national experts provided insights into the project’s design, operation, and proposed routes.
Chaudhry Muhammad Asif emphasized the partnership between the Punjab government and ADB to introduce a state-of-the-art public transport system in Faisalabad. The BRT system is designed to deliver a high-capacity, cost-effective, and eco-friendly bus service, akin to those in Karachi, Lahore, and Peshawar.
Mehar Muhammad Ayub, Chief Engineer of FDA, detailed the proposed Metro Bus routes. The first route will extend from Kamalpur Motorway Interchange to Samundri Road Bypass, passing through key city points such as General Bus Stand, Red Crescent Chowk, and Novelty Bridge. The second route will run from Narwala Ada to Satiana Road Fish Farm, while the third will connect Jhang Road to Jaranwala Road, with Red Crescent Chowk serving as the central junction for all three routes.
Ayub also mentioned plans for feeder routes to ensure comprehensive transport coverage across Faisalabad.
In a move to promote eco-friendly transport, the Punjab government has already approved the deployment of 100 electric buses for the city.
