In a recent development in the city of Lahore, Punjab Information Minister Azma Bokhari addressed concerns surrounding the bike lanes in the area. She clarified that the paint used on these bike lanes was applied by a local company on a trial basis, ensuring a one-year guarantee. Bokhari emphasized that no Punjab government funds had been spent and no payment had been made to the company as of yet. She further stated that as part of the trial phase, the same company would reapply the paint at no additional cost.
Comparison with Peshawar’s BRT System
Drawing a comparison with the Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system in Peshawar, Bokhari highlighted persistent inefficiencies faced by the Peshawar BRT over the past five years. She noted that the system had more downtime than operational time and had been involved in frequent accidents. Additionally, she mentioned that the Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa government still owes Rs60 billion for the Peshawar Metro project, with the BRT case pending in an international court.
Bokhari criticized Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa Adviser Barrister Saif for deflecting attention from his government’s shortcomings by unfairly targeting Punjab’s progress. She remarked that those unable to showcase their own government’s achievements often resort to undermining successful initiatives by others. She also pointed out that the K-P government’s spokesperson had yet to present any report on his chief minister’s performance, while citizens in K-P continued to face risks such as crossing rivers on makeshift rafts and containers.
Future Plans for Urban Mobility
Looking ahead, Minister Azma Bokhari shared that following the successful launches of the Metro Bus and Orange Train systems, Punjab was now advancing plans for tram services and the underground Metro Green Line project to further enhance urban mobility. This forward-thinking approach aims to provide residents with efficient and convenient transportation options, ultimately improving the overall quality of life in the city.
As the city of Lahore continues to evolve and prioritize sustainable transportation solutions, the efforts made by the Punjab government under Minister Azma Bokhari’s leadership are crucial in shaping a more accessible and connected urban landscape. By addressing challenges, highlighting achievements, and planning for the future, the city is on a path towards greater progress and development that benefits all residents.
