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Ibn Azhar
Ibn Azhar
lahore metro
Interestingly, all of the above mentioned projects spear headed by Sharif brothers
created much stir and hype among the masses and classes. Where, these flagship
projects of PML (N) were applauded by one segment of society while at the same time
invited massive criticism from various quarters depending upon their bend of mind.
However, as a resident of Lahore and a keen observer I had seen the Lahore Metro
Project unfolding before my eyes like a giant coiled python made of steel and
cement.
Out of about 10 million residents, the project must have agitated each resident of
Lahore at least once in its eleven-month construction time. So, naturally, there
are a few good, bad and ugly facets of the project. Lets evaluate them as per our
own individual discretion:-
3. Facilitation for the masses This being the sole purpose of this project is
probably the best thing about Lahore Metro. An extension of a service like this to
the masses is bound to facilitate millions over due course of time.
4. A Model to follow If successful, the Lahore Metro Project has all the
potential to become a transportation role model for replication in other major
cities of the Punjab like Faisalabad, Rawalpindi and Multan.
Also the project is likely to increase the pressure on other provincial governments
to come up with similar solutions. This can give rise to a healthy and desperately
needed completion among the provincial governments.
5. Lightening Pace of the Project The project took almost eleven months to
reach completion from the drawing board till appearance on ground. The pace of
project was quite impressive for the deputy prime minister of Turkey who expressed
his views on the inauguration day.
For governments, it gives them an indication that where there is a will there is a
way. It proves the capability of local contractors and builders as well as public
gets the clear message they can do it if they want to.
Lahore Metro: Five Bad Things:
5. Not the Best Option A Rapid Bus Transit System is definitely not the best
option. Setting aside the budgetary constraints an underground massive railway
system on the lines of London Underground or New York Subway would have been a
much better proposition. Alternatively an overhead railway metro system (which was
probably perceived earlier) could have longer life, less maintenance and speedy
journey.
Lastly, the ugly thing about the project is that by no means it is an aesthetically
pleasing venture. Although much cosmetic efforts has been done to address this
aspect through excessive plantation, cleanliness and illumination etc however the
unattractive steel fence along the entire length and a long winding road; hanging
over the heads casting long shadows does not offer a very pleasant sight.