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he Punjab government is planning to start a monorail glass train between Islamabad and Murree to promote tourism and improve intercity connectivity. The government has finalised the feasibility study of the project, under special directions from Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz.
Besides several development schemes costing millions of rupees and renovation/ expansion of the hill station’s congested tourist sites, the Punjab government is planning on launching a glass train on Islamabad – Murree route. In the first phase, the track will be laid between Lake View Park Islamabad and Pindi Point in Murree.
The provincial government recently completed a feasibility study of the project. Capital Development Authority, Islamabad, has also been consulted on the project.
Initially, according to some officials, Srinagar Highway was considered as the starting point. However, Margalla railway station was later proposed. Some officials argued for the Margalla railway station because it already has the basic infrastructure.
Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz is said to be very keen on this project. In the next stage, the will be finalised and total cost of the project estimated. Next, a contract will be awarded through international tendering.
The feasibility study included a breakdown of important aspects such as railway tracks, stations, geological surveys, protection of the natural environment and other ecological issues.
The first phase of the project includes construction of a 55-kilometre railway track from Islamabad’s Margalla Railway Station to Bhara Kahu, Phurwaha Morr, Ghora Gali, Jhika Gali and Bhurban.
Some officials say that the project is inspired by a similar facility at Simla, India, built in 1906. “Situated at a height of 2,205 metres, the Simla rail project is a good example to follow,” says an official.
In 2015, Nawaz Sharif, the then-prime minister, had ordered a feasibility study for a rail link from Rawalpindi to Muzaffarabad in Azad Jammu and Kashmir. That proposal, according to one report, was for linking Bastal Morr, Bhurban and Muzaffarabad.
The first phase of the project includes constructing a 55-kilometre railway track from Islamabad’s Margalla Railway Station to Bhara Kahu, Phurwaha Morr, Ghora Gali, Jhika Gali and Bhurban.
Some citizens are of the opinion that the project will help enhance regional connectivity. Environmental sustainability remains a key focus for others.
Those supporting the project hope that the train can later be linked to Muzaffarabad. They say that this will also create employment opportunities and spur economic growth in the area.
The chief minister has presided over several meetings in the recent months to discuss the Murree Development Plan. This plan includes development, beautification, transport, construction and rehabilitation projects. The provincial government is also planning to remove high-rise hotel buildings obstructing the view of Mall Road, Murree.
The government has also decided to restore the old names of cities, areas and historical buildings including in Murree. Illegal encroachments are also being removed.
The government has short-, medium- and long-term plans for supply of drinking water aiming for a regular supply of over 600,000 gallons of clean water daily.
The provincial government has also approved expansion of old Rawalpindi-Murree-Kashmir Road; remodelling of Jhika Gali Chowk; removal of encroachments and construction; and restoration of Lawrence College Road.
The government also aims to construct a wildlife park, tree houses, camping sites, walkways and terrace parking areas in Bansra Gali and a Murree biodiversity park to provide natural habitat for plants, birds and animals, as well as picnic areas and tourist huts.
Critics say that the project will result in cutting of thousands of trees to clear the area for construction. Some are calling it a waste of money.
“It is better to spend on health, education and social development,” says Ali Imran, a university professor.
“These are good projects, but these are essentially populist projects. Their purpose is to offer short-term benefit to people so that they vote for the party. In a country such as ours, we’re always strapped for funds. Spending on such projects is unwise,” says Aima Hassan, a student who resides in the capital.
The author is a staff reporter. He can be reached at vaqargillanigmail.com