According to Chinese experts, the first ever mass rapid transit train in Lahore will help Pakistan better address its increasing demand for public transportation. The Orange Line Metro Train was put through its first test run last week after the completion of the physical infrastructure stage of the project. This move is considered to be a major step forward under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). The modern public transit service will be a major benefit to Pakistan economy and people. In Punjab, there are over 100 million people and Lahore has over 10 million residents, so public transportation has become a rising issue. Addressing increasing serious traffic mobbing at an affordable cost will be a key towards lavish future. The test run was made across Lahore via a 25-kilometer route. There are 26 stations, including 24 elevated stops and two underground stations which is expected to cut travel time by 70%. The system will bring benefits to commuters and office workers in the city while the roomier train compartment provides ready access to an area exclusively for women. It seems that in the sixth year of CPEC, the focus has been shifted from addressing Pakistan’s energy shortage woes to public transportation. It is expected to transport 250,000 passengers daily when it is fully operational in the first half of 2020. The CPEC and metro train is built by a joint venture of China Railway Corporation and China North Industries Corporation.
