LAHORE/ISLAMABAD: The Punjab government is set to inaugurate Pakistan’s first Urban Super Autonomous Rapid Transport (SART) system on Lahore’s Canal Road, with operations scheduled to begin on August 14.
The electric tram service, designed to carry up to 320 passengers per trip, aims to provide an efficient, eco-friendly alternative to existing transport options. For the past seven years, Canal Road — one of Lahore’s busiest routes — has had no public transport, forcing commuters to rely on motorcycle rickshaws, which have significantly contributed to air pollution.
To tackle both mobility and environmental concerns, the Punjab Transport Department has approved the Urban Electric Tram initiative. A trial run of the Yellow Line SART was completed successfully, sparking widespread public enthusiasm.
The trackless electric tram will cover a 31-kilometre stretch from Thokar Niaz Baig to Jallo Park, operating on the side lanes of the main road. Each tram unit comprises three interconnected carriages and can travel up to 40 kilometres on a single charge.
NADRA upgrades its Pak ID App
The National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA) has incorporated key changes in its Pak ID mobile application. In the upgraded version of its Pak ID mobile application, NADRA has introduced a range of advanced features with improved identity-related services for Pakistani citizens.
The new update (version 3.8.1) is designed to streamline processes such as applying for national ID cards, passports, and other essential documents, making them more accessible, efficient, and user-friendly.
Key new features include:
- Facial Biometric Verification: Replacing traditional fingerprint authentication, the app now uses advanced facial recognition technology to update and verify identity.
- Biometric Requirement Removal: Allows users to view family member details without biometric verification.
- Online Appointment Booking: Enables users to schedule visits to NADRA centres directly through the app.
- Tracking ID Check: Lets applicants track the status of their applications in real time.
- Improved User Interface: A smoother, faster, and more intuitive navigation experience.
NADRA officials stated that the updated app significantly reduces the need for physical visits to registration centres. Citizens can now apply for new ID cards, request corrections, and even access digital versions of their identity documents from their smartphones.
This update reflects NADRA’s ongoing commitment to digital transformation and public convenience. Users are encouraged to download or update the app to take advantage of the new features.
The announcement follows NADRA’s recent public advisory warning citizens against sharing personal data with unauthorised websites or mobile applications. The authority cautioned against scams in which fraudulent platforms, posing as NADRA, offer incentives in exchange for ID details — later misused for illegal activities.
