LAHORE: The Punjab Mass Transit Authority (PMA) has unveiled the first official details of the highly anticipated Murree Glass Train, a project aimed at transforming travel between Islamabad and the scenic hill station of Murree.
Designed as an eco-friendly electric monorail, this innovative transportation option promises a quick, scenic, and environmentally sustainable journey, providing travelers with an alternative to congested road routes and an opportunity to enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding hills.
Journey Route and Stations
According to the PMA, the train will operate from Lake View Park in Islamabad to a station near the Murree bus terminal. The entire trip is expected to last approximately 40 minutes. The route includes four key stops:
Lake View Park (initial station)
Chattar Park Station
Ghora Gali Station
Murree Bus Station (final destination)
Fare Structure and Features
The project offers two ticket categories:
Standard: Rs. 500
Premium: Rs. 1,000
The glass-walled monorail, powered by electricity, aims to reduce emissions while offering passengers panoramic views of the lush hills. It is set to enhance the tourist experience, making trips to Murree more enjoyable and less stressful.The official launch date and operational timetable are yet to be announced, but preparations are moving forward.
Development and Future Expansion
A comprehensive feasibility study has already been completed. The proposed route from Murree to Lake View spans approximately 40 km, much of it elevated, with a segment from Murree to Pindi Point already planned.
The Punjab government, in collaboration with its consultants at Nespak, is assisting the Capital Development Authority (CDA) in advancing the project. During a recent meeting at CDA headquarters, Nespak presented a pre-feasibility plan proposing to connect the monorail with the Islamabad airport via Faizabad.
The proposal leverages the existing CDA metro track from the airport to Faizabad for the elevated monorail system. Additionally, a 13 km track from Faizabad to near Bhara Kahu bypass could link with the main station situated between Lake View Park and the bypass. Further plans include extending the route from Rawat to Faizabad via the Expressway, creating a seamless network connecting Murree, Islamabad, and the airport.
Political Support and Feasibility
Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has actively championed the project, emphasizing its importance for tourism and connectivity. She recently announced that the project would commence soon during a public gathering in Murree.
Officials have highlighted the terrain’s suitability, citing the historic feasibility of rail links in hilly regions. Murree’s elevation of 2,200 meters is comparable to the 2,205-meter Shimla rail link established during the British era in 1906, indicating that such a monorail project is technically possible.
An official source stated that linking the Islamabad airport directly to Murree via the monorail would significantly benefit tourists, public commuters, and foreign visitors, facilitating swift travel between the capital and the picturesque hill station.
