ISLAMABAD: Pakistan has unveiled the first official details of an ambitious “glass train” project that will link the capital city of Islamabad with the popular hill station of Murree, aiming to create one of the country’s most scenic transport corridors while reducing severe road congestion on the mountain route.
The initiative, developed by the Punjab Mass Transit Authority (PMA), will use an electric monorail system fitted with wide transparent windows to give passengers panoramic views of the Margalla Hills and the surrounding forested landscape.
Murree, located about 60 kilometres (37 miles) from Islamabad, is one of Pakistan’s most visited hill stations, drawing large numbers of tourists during summer and winter. Heavy traffic on the winding mountain highway often causes long delays and raises safety concerns — issues the new train aims to address.
Planned Route and Stations
According to preliminary plans, the monorail will begin at Lake View Park, a major recreational area in Islamabad, and travel through several stops before reaching Murree. Proposed stations include:
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Lake View Park in Islamabad
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Chattar Park, a forested picnic area
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Ghora Gali, a small mountain town
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Murree Bus Stand, close to the town’s main commercial area
Officials expect the full journey to take approximately 40 minutes, offering a faster and safer alternative to road travel, which can be significantly longer during peak tourist seasons or winter snowfall.
The government is also considering a future extension linking the route to Islamabad International Airport, which would allow travellers to reach the hill station directly after landing.
Tourism and Economic Impact
Authorities say the train could become a major attraction in itself, providing visitors with a smooth, scenic journey through one of Pakistan’s most picturesque regions. Local businesses in Murree — including hotels, restaurants, and small shops — are expected to benefit from increased visitor flow.
“This will give tourists a new way to experience the mountains without the stress of crowded roads,” one official involved in the project said.
The glass train is part of a broader effort to modernize Pakistan’s public transport and introduce cleaner, more sustainable infrastructure. The electric monorail system is expected to reduce emissions and help manage the environmental pressure on the fragile mountain ecosystem.
Authorities say construction timelines and financial details will be shared once feasibility studies are complete.
