Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif has approved a digital transformation initiative for the province’s mass transit system, introducing a modern fare collection system across Metro Bus and Orange Line services. Chairing a meeting of the transport department and Mass Transit Authority, she gave the go-ahead to abolish the existing token-based system and replace it with a barcode-enabled e-payment mechanism. Commuters will soon be able to pay fares using credit cards, debit cards, ATM cards, mobile wallets, and NFC-enabled cards.
This digital payment system will be implemented in Lahore, Multan, Rawalpindi, and Islamabad. The fare integration across cities is part of a broader plan to standardize the province’s public transport network. A single travel card named the T-Cash card has been approved to serve as a unified payment solution across all Metro Bus and Orange Line routes in Punjab. A separate version of the card will also be rolled out for students.
The transition from tokens to card-based payment is expected to streamline fare collection, reduce operational delays, and improve commuter convenience. As part of the upgrade, passengers will scan barcodes or tap NFC cards when boarding, making payments digital, trackable, and efficient. The chief minister emphasized timely implementation and tasked the authorities to ensure that the system is introduced without disruption to current services.
To strengthen public transport further, the chief minister also gave approval in principle for recruitment across technical roles within the transport department, covering grades 5 through 18. The move aims to enhance departmental capacity and ensure skilled personnel are available to manage the upgraded systems.
In addition to digital fare collection, the meeting reviewed the future of environmentally friendly transport. The chief minister and participants discussed the introduction of electric rickshaws as a cleaner alternative to traditional motorcycle rickshaws. Suggestions for the new initiative were invited, and discussions are expected to progress in the coming weeks.
Plans for Punjab’s first international transport expo also received preliminary approval during the session. The proposed expo aims to showcase global innovations in mobility and bring together stakeholders from across the industry.
A comprehensive vehicle identification solution using RFID stickers was also greenlit. These RFID tags will support broader automation in vehicle-related processes across Punjab, including traffic regulation, digital tolling, and public safety measures.
Punjab Transport Secretary Imran Sikandar Baloch delivered a detailed briefing on the Yellow Line bus rapid transit (BRT) system connecting Lahore and Gujranwala. The meeting was informed that the supply of electric buses for various districts will begin next month. The participants also reviewed final design and colour options for prefabricated bus shelters in Lahore, with the installation of the first 50 units set to begin shortly.
Separately, in her message on World Day for International Justice, Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz stated that the absence of justice leads to societal oppression, adding that justice is vital for development and prosperity.
