Punjab allocates Rs 85b for transport sector in budget 2025-26

The Punjab government has allocated a substantial budget of Rs 85 billion for the transport sector in the upcoming fiscal year for enhancing urban mobility and public transportation infrastructure across the province.

According to proposed budget documents, Rs 4.57 billion has been earmarked for the continuation of ongoing transport projects, while a whopping Rs 80.43 billion has been allocated for the initiation of new ventures aimed at modernizing the province’s transport system.

One of the flagship projects in the new budget is the Yellow Line Mass Transit System, for which the government has earmarked an initial sum of Rs 10 billion. This project is expected to become a major component of Lahore’s expanding metro network.

In a bid to upgrade administrative infrastructure, Rs2 million has been reserved for the renovation and provision of basic facilities at the Transport House.

Additionally, Rs50 million has been allocated for implementing a centralized automated fare collection and scheduling system for buses. 

An allocation of Rs 5 million has been earmarked for the security arrangements for Chinese staff working at the Orange Line Metro Train depot in the budget. 

To explore new transit corridors, the government has reserved Rs180 million for feasibility studies of future mass transit projects.

Rs 500 million is allocated for the urban bus depot at Thokar Niaz Baig, and Rs 400 million has been set aside for another depot near the Lahore Railway Station.

In line with the push for sustainable and modern transport, the Punjab government will establish new vehicle testing laboratories under the Punjab Road Safety Authority, with Rs 5 million earmarked for the initiative.

 Furthermore, a significant allocation of Rs200 million has been made for depots to support the growing fleet of electric buses.

Rs 10 million has been reserved for the development of a Command and Control Centre and the construction of a dedicated Transport Tower.