Transportation in Pakistan is diverse and essential, especially with a population of over 212 million. As the population grows, it becomes more important to provide comfortable and easy transport options for daily commutes.
To offer a safe, efficient, and comfortable urban transportation system and to reduce traffic congestion in Lahore, the Punjab Mass Transit Authority introduced the Metro Bus Service in Lahore beside its other projects, Seedo Bus Service and Lahore Orange Line Train. This Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system, known as Line-1, runs from Gajjumata to Shahdara and was established to streamline transport in the city.
Metro Bus Service Lahore:
The Punjab Mass Transit Authority started the Metro Bus Service in Lahore to make city travel safe, efficient, and comfortable. It also helps reduce traffic problems. Along with other projects like the Speedo Bus Service and Lahore Orange Line Train, the Metro Bus Service improves public transport in the city. This Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system, called Line-1, runs from Gajjumata to Shahdara, making travel easier for daily passengers.
The Lahore Metro Bus works in coordination with the Lahore Transport Company to integrate local bus services. This partnership ensures seamless travel across Lahore and provides connections to nearby suburban areas. The first phase of the Lahore Metro Bus, covering a 27 km stretch from Gajjumata to Shahdara, was inaugurated on February 11, 2013, by Punjab Chief Minister Shahbaz Sharif, alongside Turkey’s Deputy Prime Minister Bekir Bozdag.
Metro Bus Service Lahore Features:
The Metro Bus system offers a reliable and comfortable transport service with a focus on passenger convenience and environmental sustainability. Key features of the system include:
- Bus Fleet: Over 180 articulated, 18-meter-long high-floor buses with a seating capacity of 38 passengers, and room for 150 standing passengers.
- Efficient Service: Buses arrive every 5 minutes during peak hours and every 7 minutes during non-peak hours.
- Easy Access: Spacious doors allow easy entry and exit for passengers.
- Eco-Friendly Buses: Diesel-electric plug-in hybrid buses improve fuel efficiency, reduce emissions, and recharge their batteries at charging stations.
- Comfortable Travel: Standard buses with comfortable seats ensure a restful and pleasant journey.
- Clean Facilities: Metro bus stations are equipped with clean toilets for passengers’ convenience.
- Dedicated Route: The buses operate on a 27km dedicated two-lane road, designed for a maximum speed of 60km/h, though the speed limit is set at 40km/h for safety.
- Modern Infrastructure: The project includes 104 escalators and 664 platform doors, enhancing passenger convenience and safety.
The Metro Bus system aims to offer a smooth, eco-friendly, and efficient travel experience.
Metro Bus Service Lahore Stations:
Lahore, Pakistan’s second-largest city with a population of around 10 million, is well-served by the Metro Bus Service Lahore, operating along a 27 km route from Gajjumata to Shahdara. The system includes 27 stations—18 at ground level and 9 elevated—designed to provide fast, convenient, and accessible transportation across the city.
Features of Metro Bus Stations:
- Modern infrastructure: Stations are equipped with sliding doors for platform safety and escalators for easy access.
- Spacious design: Platforms are wide and spacious, accommodating a large number of passengers comfortably.
- Real-time updates: Digital screens display the next station information and the current location of the bus.
- Automated fare collection: Passengers can use rechargeable travel cards or purchase cash tickets at station counters, making the payment process seamless and efficient.
- Clean facilities: Stations offer clean, well-maintained toilets and waiting areas for passenger convenience.
- Accessibility: All stations are designed to be wheelchair-friendly and accessible for people with disabilities.
Key Highlights of the Route:
- The elevated portion from Canal to Data Darbar spans 8.3 km, ensuring a faster commute by bypassing city traffic.
- A 3.8 km elevated section also includes rotaries at Jain Mandir and MAO College, with a roundabout in between to manage traffic flow efficiently.
- The system operates on dedicated lanes, ensuring uninterrupted bus travel at peak and off-peak hours.
With these advanced features, the Metro Bus Service Lahore Stations are designed to provide a fast, reliable, and comfortable travel experience for millions of daily commuters.
Metro Bus Service Lahore Bus Stations List:
There are 29 stations of the bus from Shahdara to Gajjumata are given below.
- Shahdara Terminal
- Niazi Chowk
- Timber Market
- Azadi Chowk
- Bhatti Chowk
- Zila Katchery
- Civil Secretariat
- MAO College Orange Line (Lahore Metro)
- Janazgah
- Qartaba Chowk
- Shama
- Icrha
- Canal
- Qaddafi Stadium
- Kalma Chowk
- Model Town
- Naseerabad
- Ittefaq Hospital
- Qainchi
- Ghazi Chowk
- Chungi Amar Sidhu
- Kamahan
- Atari Saroba
- Nishtar
- Youhanabad
- Dulu Khurd
- Gajjumata Terminal
Metro Bus Service Lahore Ticket Price:
The Metro Bus Service Lahore offers two convenient ways to pay for your fare: buy a single-ride token or use a Metrobus Card for multiple trips with added discounts.
- Token Fare: Rs. 30 per ride.
- Metrobus Card: Available for Rs. 130, you can load it with up to Rs. 1000 at any Ticket Vending Machine (TVM) located at the stations. This card offers lower rates for multiple rides and helps you save time by avoiding the need to purchase a token for each trip.
- Prepaid Card Benefits:
- One trip: Rs. 30
- Two trips: Rs. 60
- Three trips: Rs. 95
You can also check your balance and recharge your Metrobus Card through the station TVM. If you no longer need the card, you can return it to the authorities and get a refund of Rs. 130.
It’s important to note that both token and cardholders must complete their journey within 1 hour and 15 minutes after using the token or card, or they will be charged again.
For more information on ticket prices of bus services in Pakistan, we recommend checking out the following link: Bus Fares in Pakistan
Metro Bus Service Lahore Timings
The Metro Bus Service is designed to minimize waiting times, ensuring a fast and efficient journey. Buses make brief stops at each station, allowing passengers to get on and off quickly.
Operating Hours
- Operating Hours: 6:15 AM – 10:00 PM
Departure Intervals
- Central Line Buses: Every 2.25 to 3 minutes during peak hours.
- Feeder Buses: Every 5 to 10 minutes during peak hours.
This schedule allows passengers to plan their trips effectively and reduces wait times, making it a reliable choice for daily commuters.
For Updated bus timings of Luxury buses visit Bus Timings In Pakistan
Conclusion
The Punjab Mass Transit Authority (PMA) is committed to enhancing public transportation in Lahore. Plans are underway to expand the Lahore Metro Bus route, which will reach more areas in the future, further improving accessibility and convenience for commuters throughout the city. This expansion aims to provide a reliable and efficient transit system that meets the growing needs of Lahore’s residents.
Official Website: pma.punjab.gov.pk/lahore_metrobus_system
Contact Number/Helpline: (042)111-222-627
Frequently Asked Questions:
What is the Metro Bus Service in Lahore?
The Metro Bus Service Lahore is a rapid transit system that provides efficient, reliable, and comfortable transportation across the city. It operates along a 27 km route, connecting key areas and offering modern facilities.
How many stations are there in the Metro Bus Service Lahore?
There are 29 stations along the Metro Bus route, including Shahdara Terminal, Niazi Chowk, and Gajjumata Terminal.
What is the Price of a Metro Bus Card?
Metro Bus Card Available in Just Rs130. You’ll recharge it anytime from any station.
How can I pay for my ticket on the Metro Bus?
You can pay using a single-ride token, which costs Rs. 30, or a Metrobus Card that offers discounts for multiple rides. The card costs Rs. 130 and can be loaded with up to Rs. 1000.
What are the bus timings of the Metro Bus Service in Lahore?
The Metro Bus Service Lahore operates from 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM daily. During peak hours, buses run every 2.25 to 3 minutes.
How can I contact the Metro Bus Service for more information?
You can reach the Metro Bus Service through their helpline at (042) 111-222-627 or their official website at pma.punjab.gov.pk/lahore_metrobus_system.
Can I bring luggage on the Metro Bus?
Yes, passengers are allowed to bring a reasonable amount of luggage on the Metro Bus. However, large items may not be permitted to ensure comfort and safety for all passengers.
What types of buses are included in the Metro Bus fleet?
The Metro Bus fleet consists of articulated, high-floor buses that are designed for comfort and capacity. These buses feature spacious seating and standing room to accommodate large numbers of passengers.
Is the Metro Bus Service available on public holidays?
Yes, the Metro Bus Service operates on public holidays, although the schedule may vary. It’s advisable to check the service timings before planning your trip on holiday.
Does any other city have a metro bus in Pakistan besides Lahore?
Yes, there is a Metro Bus Service in Rawalpindi and Multan as well.
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