Punjab Allocates Funds for High-Speed Rail and Tourist Train Projects in 2026-27 Budget
The Punjab government has earmarked funding for several major infrastructure projects in its Annual Development Programme (ADP) 2026-27, including feasibility studies for a proposed high-speed rail link between Rawalpindi and Lahore and a tourist glass train connecting Rawalpindi with Murree.
The projects are part of the province’s broader strategy to improve transportation infrastructure, enhance regional connectivity, and support tourism.
Feasibility Study Approved for Rawalpindi–Lahore High-Speed Rail
Under the new development programme, the provincial government has allocated Rs200 million for the feasibility study of the proposed high-speed railway connecting Rawalpindi and Lahore.
The total estimated cost of the feasibility study is Rs452 million. The study will evaluate the project’s technical, financial and operational aspects before any construction work begins.
Funding Allocated for Murree Tourist Glass Train
The government has also allocated Rs49 million for initial work on the proposed Rawalpindi–Murree tourist glass train project, which has an estimated overall cost of Rs117 billion.
According to officials, the land acquisition process for the proposed railway track and station sites has already started in Murree as planning activities continue.
Ring Road and Urban Development Projects
The Annual Development Programme also includes funding for several major road infrastructure schemes.
A total of Rs3 billion has been allocated for the 38-kilometre Rawalpindi Ring Road project, stretching from Banth to the Thalian Main Carriageway. The project has an estimated total cost of Rs47 billion, with approximately Rs29 billion already spent.
Additionally, Rs69 million has been set aside for the feasibility study of Ring Road Phase II, which is planned to extend from Thalian to GT Road.
Investment in Traffic Improvement Projects
To improve traffic flow in Rawalpindi, the government has allocated funding for several flyovers and underpasses, including:
- Rs100 million for the Ammar Chowk Flyover project.
- Rs200 million for the Race Course and Army Graveyard underpasses.
- Rs93 million for the Tulsa Chowk Underpass.
- Rs100 million for the COD Underpass.
These projects are intended to reduce congestion and improve travel across key areas of the city.
Sewerage and Gujar Khan Projects
The development programme also includes Rs1 million for a feasibility study of a proposed sewerage outfall trunk system designed to improve the city’s drainage infrastructure.
In Gujar Khan, the provincial government has allocated Rs100 million for the construction of two underpasses at Galiana Mor and Technical College Chowk. The combined estimated cost of these projects is Rs4.531 billion.
Focus on Long-Term Infrastructure Development
The funding allocations reflect Punjab’s continued focus on expanding transport infrastructure and upgrading urban facilities. While several projects are currently at the planning and feasibility stage, they are expected to guide future investments in rail, road and public infrastructure across the province.
