On a mission to refine public transportation, Pakistan has introduced South Asia’s first trackless electric tram system in Lahore. The rollout marks a substantial milestone in Pakistan’s urban transport, merging modern technology with eco-friendly operations, providing a smarter, cleaner way to travel. This solar-powered, ticketless, and trackless electric metro system is officially named the Super Autonomous Rapid Transit (SART).
On July 23, 2025, Maryam Nawaz, Chief Minister of Punjab (Pakistan), boarded the first electric train for its debut trial run. The ceremonial test run was between Ali Road and Muslim Town in Lahore, having government officials, engineers, and media representatives on board as onlookers.
Maryam Nawaz said that the government’s mission is to bring world-class transport facilities to cities while managing traffic problems and pollution. Furthermore, she described this rollout as “an emblem of innovation and sustainability that will reward both people and the environment.”
The Lahore electric tram system relies on sensors, GPS, and digital mapping, rather than physical rails or overhead wires.
It operates on Virtual Track Technology (VTT). A VTT uses:
- Lidar sensors for high-resolution tracking and improved object detection.
- GPS navigation system for route planning accuracy and real-time road updates.
- Camera-based assistance to enhance safety and operational efficiency.
- Digital mapping for maintaining a compatible path.
The utilization of VTT technology lets the electric tram move like a traditional rail vehicle. In addition, it may run directly on existing roads, saving expenditure and eliminating long construction time.
Pakistan’s SART system has drawn inspiration from the Autonomous Rail Rapid Transit (ART) in Zhuzhou, China. Invented by the CRRC Zhuzhou Institute in 2017, it has incorporated the concept of environment conservation throughout its design, operation, production, and recycling stages.
By adopting the ART technology, Pakistan has become the first South Asian nation to launch trackless electric trams to the market.
Each Super Autonomous Rapid Transit (SART) vehicle comes with three or four connected coaches. So, it can afford 250 to 400 passengers in a single journey. Thus, it can carry over 100 seated passengers and up to 200 standing travelers.
Other notable features of Lahore’s SART are
- Air-conditioned interiors.
- Free Wi-Fi connectivity.
- CCTV cameras attached.
- LED displays for route information and stop updates.
- Low-floor design to help wheelchair users and elders with strollers.
- Its spacious interior offers comfort to passengers.
Moreover, the SART system relies completely on electricity, producing zero pollutants. This is beneficial for a city like Lahore, which has had the highest air pollution rate in recent years. A fully charged electric tram can travel up to 40 kilometers, and a 10-minute extra charge can extend it by an additional 27 kilometers. This capability makes the electric trams run hassle-free with less downtime.
The trackless tram is just an initial step. Under the five-year transport plan, the Punjab government aims to launch a similar initiative within the first year in 10 cities, including Faisalabad and Gujranwala. Through an eco-friendly public transport system, they link 30 more cities by the end of the plan.
The Punjab government aims at introducing a provincial network that lessens dependence on private cars as well as provides a reliable alternative to overcrowded lanes.
In order to test the electric tram, they conducted a trial journey along Canal Road, covering areas from Thokar Niaz Baig to Harbanspura.
During the trail journey, officials monitored the following:
- Tram’s performance in mixed traffic
- Passenger boarding times
- Battery efficiency and charging cycles.
- Safety and navigation accuracy.
Furthermore, the government has planned a demonstration run to one of Lahore’s busiest commercial areas, Main Boulevard in Gulberg.
Why Trackless Trams Make Sense for Lahore
For a crowded city like Lahore, trackless trams share several advantages that make them a practical choice.
- Low transport costs.
- Easy to modify routes depending on demands.
- Less disruption during installation.
- Faster rollout as SART utilizes existing roads.
To be clear, through this electric tram initiative, Lahore can implement rapid transport upgrades without gigantic infrastructure projects.
Environmental Benefits
Environmental groups have exalted the Initiative, saying it’s the most essential step put forward for sustainable urban living. The environmental advantages of the electric tram system go beyond reducing harmful emissions:
- Reduce the number of diesel buses and cars on the roads.
- Lessen air pollution, providing cleaner air.
- Reduce noise pollution in residential and commercial areas.
- Support climate action goals of Pakistan.
Highlights of the Initiative
- System Name: Super Autonomous Rapid Transit (SART).
- Launch Date: 23 July 2025.
- Pilot Route: Thokar Niaz Baig to Harbanspura (Canal Road).
- Technology: Lidar, GPS, and camera-based guidance.
- Range: 40 km full charge plus an extra 27 km fast charge.
- Capacity: Carry over 100 seated passengers and up to 200 standing travelers.
- Key Benefit: Zero harmful emissions, cost-efficient, and flexible routes.
- Future Cities: Faisalabad, Gujranwala
Conclusion
The launch of Lahore’s trackless electric tram is an effective step towards a greener tomorrow. The Initiative is the most efficient transport solution launched in Pakistan. If the SART system becomes successful in Lahore, it could pave the way for similar rollouts, placing Pakistan as a regional leader in sustainable urban transport development.
