Punjab Shifts Orange Line to Solar Power

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The Punjab government has launched a major cost-saving initiative by announcing the full transition of Lahore’s Orange Line metro train stations to solar power. A 1.6-megawatt solar plant will be installed to supply electricity to all stations, powering critical infrastructure such as lighting, escalators, and other essential systems.

According to Punjab Mass Transit Authority officials, this solar initiative is designed to sharply reduce monthly electricity bills and ease the financial burden of government subsidies, which currently cost the province billions of rupees annually. The solar shift is also expected to offer an uninterrupted energy supply to the Orange Line, ensuring that day-to-day train operations remain unaffected.

At present, the Orange Line – Lahore’s flagship metro project – relies heavily on the national power grid. This dependence places pressure on both the provincial budget and the country’s already overburdened energy infrastructure. By tapping into Punjab’s strong solar potential, officials believe the province can move towards energy self-sufficiency in its transport sector.

Finance analysts have welcomed the move, noting that it offers a scalable model for other public sector services. Rising energy costs continue to drain public finances, and shifting to solar power presents both immediate savings and long-term stability. The initiative may also ease electricity demand across the wider grid, benefiting residential and commercial consumers by improving power availability.

In addition to its financial upside, the solar conversion reinforces Punjab’s efforts to modernize public services through cost-effective and practical reforms. Officials stated that once the Orange Line transition proves successful, similar energy strategies could be introduced across other state-run facilities, including hospitals, schools, and administrative buildings.

While the upfront investment in solar infrastructure is substantial, long-term projections suggest considerable budgetary relief. The project is also expected to reduce dependency on fossil fuels without disrupting existing services or increasing fares for commuters.

This development signals a shift in how large-scale infrastructure projects are managed in Pakistan. By adopting sustainable energy sources for public transport, Punjab sets a precedent for innovation, efficiency, and fiscal responsibility. The Orange Line solar initiative marks a strategic effort to control costs while maintaining the quality and reliability of essential urban services.