The Punjab government has decided to introduce 18 new Chinese Super Autonomous Rapid Transit (SRT) metros in multiple cities, in collaboration with NORINCO International, operator of Lahore’s Orange Line Metro, according to Gwadar Pro. The initiative is part of Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz’s five-year transport master plan, which envisions Automated Rapid Transit (ART) systems in 30 cities across the province.

SRT, branded as a “subway on the road,” is trackless, battery-powered, and digitally guided, offering a flexible and eco-friendly alternative to conventional metros. Officials say each vehicle can replace up to 100 cars, reducing pollution, congestion, and noise while improving urban equity.

SRT was showcased at Punjab’s first Transport Expo earlier this month and is already in use in cities such as Dubai. With speeds of up to 100 km/h and a capacity of 250–300 passengers, SRT combines the efficiency of metro systems with the affordability of bus transit. Its rollout is seen as a milestone in Punjab’s push for green, smart, and accessible cities.

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