CDA moves forward with electric tram project in Islamabad

ISLAMABAD: The Capital Development Authority (CDA) has decided to carry out a feasibility study for an electric tram project in Islamabad, aimed at promoting a modern and eco-friendly public transport system.

The decision was taken during a meeting at CDA headquarters on Wednesday, chaired by CDA Chairman and Islamabad Chief Commissioner Muhammad Ali Randhawa. Senior officials, including Member Admin Talat Mahmood, Member Planning and Design Dr Khalid Hafeez, Member Finance Tahir Naeem, and Deputy Commissioner Irfan Nawaz Memon, attended the session.

The meeting discussed the practical implementation of electric trams and electric buses, including the required infrastructure. Under the tram project, facilities such as depots, parking, charging stations, and maintenance units will be developed. The system will be integrated with a modern Intelligent Transport System (ITS) and designed to be fully digital and cashless.

Chairman Randhawa directed that the project’s planning phase ensure eligibility for carbon credits. He emphasised that the tram network should connect key locations in Islamabad, particularly Islamabad International Airport, taking into account the latest ridership data and future demand projections.

Randhawa described the initiative as a historic step that will provide residents with affordable, modern, and environmentally friendly transport, while also reducing pollution in the federal capital.