The Punjab government has finalized the feasibility study for an ambitious monorail project connecting Islamabad with Murree, with Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz pushing for an early start. The 40-kilometre elevated track aims to boost tourism, improve accessibility, and modernize transport infrastructure between the two major destinations.
According to officials, the government is now preparing to move into the procurement phase to begin track development. Initially, the first phase was planned from near Lake View Park to Pindi Point in Murree, but authorities are now exploring an extension linking the monorail to the Islamabad International Airport for better connectivity.
An official confirmed that Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz is personally monitoring progress and has directed concerned departments to expedite implementation. “Our feasibility is complete, and track laying will begin soon. The project is feasible despite Murree’s hilly terrain, as similar elevated rail systems have been successfully built in even higher regions like Shimla,” he said.
The government expects the project to be completed within two years once construction begins. In a recent meeting chaired by CM’s Advisor Shahid Ashraf Tarar, the Punjab government and the Capital Development Authority (CDA) discussed alignment options for the airport link.
Officials proposed using the right of way along Srinagar Highway—from the airport to Peshawar Mor—before extending the route to Lake View Park.
The CDA also suggested possible connections with Margalla or Rawat railway stations. Both sides agreed to conduct a pre-feasibility study for the airport-to-Lake View section before finalising the alignment.
The monorail, described as a “glass train” due to its scenic elevated route, is envisioned as a transformative tourism and public transport project. It will reduce travel time between Islamabad and Murree while offering panoramic views of the region’s natural landscape.
