Lahore Unveils First “Trackless Metro” — A Glimpse into the Future of Urban Transport
LAHORE – In a major step toward modernizing urban mobility, Lahore has welcomed its first demonstration vehicle of the Super Autonomous Rail Rapid Transit (SRT) System, commonly known as the “trackless metro” or “subway on the road.”
The cutting-edge vehicle was showcased earlier this month, marking the beginning of a feasibility assessment to determine the system’s suitability for Pakistan’s public transport network.
🚍 What is the SRT System?
The SRT operates on Virtual Track Technology — a digitally guided system that eliminates the need for traditional rail tracks. Instead, the vehicle follows a pre-programmed route using onboard sensors, GPS, and cameras, offering the flexibility of a bus with the capacity and comfort of a metro.
🌐 Already in Use Worldwide
Originally launched in China’s Jiangsu Province in 2021, the SRT system is now being used in multiple countries, including:
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🇨🇳 China
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🇲🇾 Malaysia
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🇹🇷 Türkiye
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🇦🇪 United Arab Emirates
The system has also earned the prestigious Zhan Tianyou Award from the China Civil Engineering Society, recognizing innovation in urban transport.
🚧 Still in Testing Phase
The vehicle currently in Lahore is part of a demonstration project aimed at evaluating the technology’s feasibility under local traffic and environmental conditions. At this stage, no official launch date has been announced.
Transport officials and urban planners will monitor performance and public reception before making decisions about broader adoption.
🛣 Why It Matters
With traffic congestion and air pollution worsening in major cities, smart mobility solutions like the SRT offer a cost-effective and eco-friendly alternative to traditional metro rail systems. The system’s trackless design reduces construction costs, speeds up deployment, and allows for more flexible route planning.
Stay tuned for further updates as Lahore tests this futuristic mode of transport that could reshape public commuting across Pakistan.
