The Punjab government has announced a plan to introduce tram-like trackless electric buses as part of a new sustainable public transport initiative.

Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has directed the provincial transport department to begin preliminary trials for the system.

During a meeting held on Thursday, the chief minister approved a five-year transport programme aimed at modernising the province’s public transit infrastructure. Officials briefed her on the Automated Rapid Transit (ART) system, which has been successfully implemented in countries such as Abu Dhabi, Malaysia, and Qatar.

The meeting’s participants were informed that the ART is among the most sustainable public transport systems globally.

The trackless electric buses used in this system are considered more efficient than conventional public transport, including the articulated buses currently operating in metro services in Lahore, Rawalpindi, and Multan. These vehicles can operate on standard roads within dedicated lanes, eliminating the need for specialised tracks or rail systems.

Additionally, the ART system requires less space compared to traditional buses.

According to the briefing, each ART bus will consist of three coaches, accommodating 250 to 300 passengers. The buses will feature fast-charging, Wi-Fi connectivity, and CCTV surveillance.

Charging will be completed within minutes while stationed at ART smart stations. It was also proposed that the entire ART system would be powered by solar energy, making it an eco-friendly transportation solution.

In the first phase, the ART transport system will be introduced in Lahore, Faisalabad, and Gujranwala, with a broader rollout planned for ten cities in three phases.

Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz emphasised the importance of expanding modern transportation to all urban areas, including smaller cities. “We aim to complete the Automated Rapid Transit project across Punjab within four years.

Every city deserves access to a modern transport system. This initiative will help bridge disparities and enhance the quality of life for residents,” she stated.

The system is a state-of-the-art, trackless electric bus network designed to offer a sustainable and efficient alternative to traditional public transport.

Unlike conventional buses, ART vehicles operate on dedicated lanes without requiring tracks or rail infrastructure. These advanced buses combine the flexibility of a bus with the efficiency of a tram, making them an ideal solution for urban transit systems.

First introduced in cities such as Abu Dhabi, Malaysia, and Qatar, ART has gained global recognition for its ability to reduce congestion, lower emissions, and provide a smooth commuting experience.