Punjab to get its own airline, bullet train

In a bid to improve intraprovince connectivity, Punjab’s Information Minister Azma Bokhari has announced the launch of key infrastructure projects. According to a press conference held in Lahore, lawmakers in Punjab have decided to launch Pakistan's first-ever bullet train, which will run from Lahore to Rawalpindi.

Furthermore, the Information Minister also announced the launch of Air Punjab, which could compete with existing airlines such as Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) and AirSial. The introduction of an additional airline will increase competitiveness in the domestic air industry, potentially causing a drop in airfares. However, airlines will not witness an immediate surge in competition, as reports believe that setting up Air Punjab will take approximately eight to 12 months.

She hailed the aforementioned infrastructure projects as "historic" and revealed Air Punjab's expansion roadmap. As per reports, the airline is set to acquire four airplanes on a lease agreement for domestic operations. However, officials running the airline are expected to obtain an "international air license" within one year, allowing the provincial airline to fly to international destinations.

Some believe that the entry of another competitor in Pakistan's airspace could reduce the market share of existing airlines. PIA recorded its first profit in over two decades in 2024, and its revenues could plummet with Air Punjab entering the market. There is some merit to this fear, as recent census reports indicate that Punjab is the most populous province, suggesting that increased competition in Punjab could lead to competitors scrambling for market share.

The bullet train project is also expected to facilitate rapid transit, cutting the 4.5-hour journey from Lahore to Rawalpindi down to just 2 hours and 20 minutes. Details from reports indicate that aside from the aforementioned route, the provincial government intends to add additional routes and stops to facilitate travel.

Commuters between both cities could witness a staggering 48.15 percent drop in travel times, resulting in significant time savings that can be allocated to more productive purposes. Moreover, the information minister disclosed plans to construct a glass train that will run from Rawalpindi to Murree.

The completion of the glass train could result in a significant surge in tourism, boosting the profit margins of hospitality establishments in Murree. The influx of tourists is expected to create new business opportunities, leading to growth in the local economy.