Key points
- SART system will modernise Pakistan’s urban transit
- Trackless tram operates without traditional rails
- Uses GPS, sensors and digital mapping
- The tram has a capacity of carrying up to 320 passengers
ISLAMABAD: Pakistan has unveiled its first trackless electric tram in Lahore, joining a select group of nations, including China, Turkey, UAE, France, and Germany, leading the way in next-generation public transport.
The newly launched Super Autonomous Rapid Transit (SART) system will modernise Pakistan’s urban transit. Powered by Virtual Track Technology, the trackless tram operates without traditional rails, using GPS, sensors, and digital mapping to navigate city roads with precision. This innovation significantly reduces infrastructure costs while offering a cleaner, high-capacity transport solution for traffic-congested cities.
Zero-emission
With a capacity of up to 320 passengers, expandable to 400 with additional coaches, the fully electric, zero-emission tram is designed to offer a comfortable ride, featuring air-conditioning, Wi-Fi, CCTV cameras, and smart display systems.
Its ability to function smoothly within existing traffic makes it ideal for cities where space and resources for traditional rail systems are limited.
Initial test runs in Lahore have been successful.
The SART system not only aims to ease congestion but also contributes to reducing urban pollution, supporting Pakistan’s broader environmental goals. Following the Lahore trial, the Punjab government plans to expand the SART system to two other major cities in Punjab, including Faisalabad and Gujranwala, under the first phase of its five-year transport modernisation strategy.
The system will be rolled out in 10 cities initially, with plans to reach 30 cities over the next four years.
