Punjab Govt Approves Lahore Elevated Expressway Project

The Punjab government has officially approved the long-delayed Lahore Elevated Expressway project, a landmark infrastructure initiative designed to tackle the city’s mounting traffic congestion. The project, which has faced repeated delays over the years, will now move forward as a priority urban mobility plan.

Project Details and Route

The 11-kilometer signal-free corridor will stretch from Main Boulevard Gulberg to the M-2 Motorway, creating a direct connection that bypasses some of Lahore’s busiest traffic bottlenecks. According to officials, the project is expected to cut travel time, reduce fuel consumption, and lower carbon emissions, making it a vital addition to the provincial capital’s road network.

On Thursday, Lahore Development Authority (LDA) Director General Tahir Farooq inspected the proposed route, stopping at key locations such as Main Boulevard Gulberg, Jail Road, Shama Stop, Samanabad, Gulshan Ravi, and Band Road. He described the expressway as a “game changer” for Lahore’s transportation system.

Technical Briefing and Benefits

During the inspection, LDA Chief Engineer Asrar Saeed and NESPAK officials briefed the DG on technical aspects of the project. The elevated expressway will directly link Gulberg with the M-2 Motorway toll plaza, significantly benefiting commuters and freight transport. Authorities estimate that the project will serve millions of vehicles annually, easing pressure on existing routes.

Rising Project Costs

Originally estimated at Rs. 30 billion, the project’s cost has ballooned to nearly Rs. 120 billion due to repeated delays and rising construction expenses. Despite the increased financial burden, officials argue that the long-term benefits of reduced congestion, lower emissions, and improved connectivity far outweigh the costs.

A Step Toward Modern Urban Mobility

Urban planners believe the Lahore Elevated Expressway project will transform the city’s traffic landscape. By offering a faster and greener alternative for commuters, the initiative represents a critical step in addressing Lahore’s growing transportation challenges and ensuring sustainable urban mobility.

Afsheen Gohar

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