To promote inclusive and affordable public transportation, the Orange Line Metro Train (OLMT) continues to serve as a reliable and economical mode of urban travel. The Punjab Finance Department has released Rs. 7 billion in subsidies to support the train’s operational costs and sustain current ticket prices. A senior OLMT official told Gwadar Pro that the decision reflects the government's commitment to accessible mobility for all segments of society.

"In a time of rising inflation and increasing transport expenses, this subsidy ensures that the service remains within reach for working individuals, students, and families who depend on it daily," the official added. Launched on October 25, 2020, and built with Chinese technology, the OLMT is South Asia’s first electric metro train. Serving a city of over 13 million people, it has become a vital transportation link, providing a fast, safe, and affordable commute across Lahore.

The train line stretches 27 kilometers with 26 stations and runs through key residential and commercial areas, particularly benefiting middle- and lower-income neighborhoods. With operations beginning daily at 6 a.m., it offers a practical solution for students and office-goers alike. For Ghazal Usman, a working mother of two, the OLMT has been life-changing. She used to spend over Rs. 35,000 ($158) per month on transportation.

Now, thanks to the metro, her monthly commute costs have dropped to around Rs. 10,000, saving both time and money. On average, about 120,000 passengers ride the Orange Line every day, underscoring its growing role in Lahore’s evolving transport infrastructure, Gwadar Pro reported on Tuesday.

Credit: Independent News Pakistan (INP) — Pak-China