The Punjab government has finalized the feasibility study for the Islamabad–Murree monorail project, marking a major step forward in Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz’s plan to improve regional connectivity and boost tourism.
The 40-kilometer track will connect Islamabad to Murree, with a large portion of the route designed as an elevated line to ensure smooth travel through hilly terrain. Initially, the first phase was planned from near Lake View Park to Pindi Point in Murree.
However, recent discussions have led to an expansion of the project’s scope, with officials now considering extending the route to the Islamabad International Airport to facilitate greater accessibility for tourists and air travelers.
The feasibility process has been completed, and preparations are underway for the procurement stage to begin track development. Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz, who has been closely monitoring the project, has directed concerned departments to expedite the launch phase.
According to experts, the proposed alignment—largely following the old Murree Road—has been deemed suitable for monorail construction, with minimal environmental disruption expected. Once construction begins, the project is expected to be completed within two years, significantly reducing travel time between Islamabad and Murree.
A recent meeting between the Punjab government and the Capital Development Authority (CDA) discussed potential alignment options for the airport connection. Officials reviewed several possible routes, including one along Srinagar Highway from Islamabad International Airport to Peshawar Mor, followed by an extension to Lake View Park.
The CDA also proposed integrating the monorail system with existing railway infrastructure at Margalla and Rawat stations to enhance connectivity and passenger convenience. Both the Punjab government and CDA agreed to conduct a pre-feasibility study for the airport-to-Lake View Park section before finalizing the project’s alignment.
