Punjab’s bullet train plan faces major challenges

LAHORE: The Punjab government’s proposal to launch Pakistan’s first bullet train between Lahore and Rawalpindi faces significant hurdles, with experts calling the project “virtually impossible” due to outdated rail infrastructure and high costs.

Officials say the current railway system cannot support speeds above 100 km/h and would require a complete overhaul of tracks, stations, signals, coaches, and engines to accommodate high-speed or bullet trains. Costs could range from $17 million to $40 million per kilometer depending on the contractor.

Federal Railways Minister Hanif Abbasi confirmed the ambition to cut travel time to 2.5 hours and said Punjab would finance the project. However, insiders warn the 280-kilometer route’s curved and uneven tracks, along with bridges needing reconstruction, make high speeds unsafe.

The fastest current service takes 4 to 4.5 hours. Experts suggest completing the stalled Main Line-1 project, which would improve speeds and negate the need for a bullet train. Projected ticket prices of Rs15,000 to Rs20,000 per passenger also raise affordability concerns for most travelers.

The debate continues as some see potential in high-speed alternatives while cautioning about realistic costs and timelines.