CDA plans to phase out subsidies for provision of quality transport service

Islamabad:Chairman of the Capital Development Authority (CDA) Muhammad Ali Randhawa on Thursday said that provision of quality transport would require minimum reliance on subsidies.

“We are gradually phasing out subsidies in order to provider best transport services in the federal capital. Alternative revenue streams, such as advertisements and smart ticketing systems, will be leveraged”, the CDA Chairman while speaking at a meeting at CDA headquarters said. The meeting focused on operationalizing the Soft Wheel Electric Tram and improving operations of Electric Feeder Buses. The meeting was attended by CDA members, representatives of the National Radio Transport Corporation (NRTC), and senior officers from relevant formations.

During the meeting, the CDA Chairman was briefed in details on the plan to introduce electric trams in Islamabad. He said hat providing Islamabad with state-of-the-art transport facilities is CDA’s top priority. The electric trams and feeder buses will not only offer citizens modern commuting solutions but also reduce air pollution and fuel consumption.

He directed authorities to finalize the feasibility study for the tram system to ensure its implementation on the city’s busiest routes. He emphasized that the tram compartments must be designed with multiple sections to accommodate maximum passengers. Accessibility for persons with disabilities and women must also be prioritized. He instructed for the development of a viable financial model to ensure long-term self-reliance for the project while setting clear timelines to operationalize the tram system within the time frame. He stressed that routes must be selected based on passenger demand data, prioritizing high-traffic areas. He further directed that all bus terminals must be equipped with modern technology, including digital screens for real-time schedules, safety alerts, and advertisements. “These projects are pivotal to transforming Islamabad into a modern, clean, and attractive capital”, he said.