The Quetta Mass Transit Train project is a proposed urban rail transit system for the city of Quetta, the provincial capital of Balochistan, Pakistan. The project aims to provide a modern, efficient, and sustainable mode of transportation to the residents of Quetta, addressing the growing need for public transport in the city.
| Quetta Mass Transit Train | |
|---|---|
| Overview | |
| Locale | Quetta, Balochistan, Pakistan |
| Transit type | Urban rail transit |
| Number of lines | 1 (Phase 1) |
| Number of stations | TBA |
Background
editQuetta, which has a population of about 0.5 million, lacks a public transport system, leading to traffic congestion, environmental pollution and high living costs.[1]
Project development
editThe Quetta Mass Transit Train initiative was originally part of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) as decided in the 6th Joint Cooperation Committee (JCC) meeting in 2016. However, it was subsequently removed in the 7th JCC.[2] Regardless of this change, the project received the green light from the Chief Minister of Balochistan, followed by a feasibility study.
Challenges and delays
editThe initiative encountered substantial setbacks and was temporarily suspended due to financial feasibility issues highlighted by a preliminary study. The government of Balochistan chose to reassess the mass transit alternatives, taking into account both railway and bus pathways.[3]
As of April 2017, the feasibility of the project has been finalized, and the Balochistan government is considering moving ahead with the development.[4]
References
edit- ^ "Quetta needs a public transport system". The Friday Times. January 29, 2021.
- ^ "Quetta Mass Transit | China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) Secretariat Official Website". www.cpec.gov.pk.
- ^ "Balochistan govt puts Quetta Mass Transit project on hold". The Express Tribune. October 28, 2019.
- ^ "Quetta Mass Transit Train feasibility finalised". The Nation. April 13, 2017.