Punjab Launches Air Punjab, Expands Transport Network
Air Punjab will operate domestically for a year before initiating international routes, with four aircraft acquired on lease immediately. The provincial government has collaborated with Pakistan Railways for the bullet train service, which will run from Lahore to Rawalpindi in two hours and 20 minutes, and has ordered the completion of formalities for licensing and leasing.
Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif has approved the launch of 'Air Punjab', the province's first-ever airline project, aiming to become the country's best airline by emphasizing international standards in service quality, safety, and operations. The airline will lease four Airbus aircraft to kickstart operations, with plans to commence operations within eight months to a year.
The project is part of a broader provincial strategy to enhance connectivity, stimulate economic activity, and modernize public services. The provincial government has also directed officials to complete studies for urban transport projects, including the Lahore Yellow Line and the Gujranwala Mass Transit Line, by the end of May and June, respectively. Additionally, Maryam Nawaz granted principle approval for a Lahore-to-Rawalpindi bullet train project, to be developed in collaboration with Pakistan Railways.
The proposed bullet train project will cover the distance between Lahore and Rawalpindi in 2 hours and 20 minutes. The provincial government has also announced plans for high-speed trains on six additional routes across Punjab, expanding the vision of a province-wide rapid transit network. The airline will initially operate domestically, with plans to acquire an international air license within a year.
The launch of Air Punjab and the expansion of the transport network are expected to have a significant impact on the province's economy and connectivity. The provincial government's efforts to modernize public services and enhance connectivity are likely to benefit the people of Punjab and contribute to the country's overall development.