Pakistan’s First Electricity-Producing Road Set to Launch in Lahore

Lahore is gearing up to make history as it prepares to inaugurate Route 47—a revolutionary urban development project being celebrated as Pakistan’s first electricity-producing road. Located in the heart of the city, this state-of-the-art thoroughfare isn’t just designed for smoother traffic—it’s wired for the future.

Route 47: A Glimpse into Pakistan’s Smart Urban Future

Route 47: Built with a Vision

Constructed by the Punjab Central Business District Development Authority (CBD Punjab), Route 47 has been developed as part of a broader transformation of the former Walton Airport area into Lahore’s Central Business District (CBD).

According to CBD Punjab CEO Imran Amin, the road “meets international standards and incorporates several smart features,” making it the central boulevard of what is poised to be the most modern commercial zone in Pakistan.

Innovative Features of Route 47

1. Energy-Generating Sidewalks

The defining feature of Route 47 is its solar-panel-fitted sidewalks, designed to:

Generate up to 1 megawatt of electricity

Provide shade for pedestrians

Promote sustainable energy production in urban zones

This level of innovation not only provides renewable energy but also supports Lahore’s transition to eco-conscious infrastructure.

2. Smart Drainage System

A key urban issue in Lahore is rain-related flooding, particularly during the monsoon season. Route 47 tackles this with:

Advanced stormwater drainage system

Underground channels to redirect rainwater

Rainwater collection to feed an artificial lake being built nearby

3. Improved Traffic Flow

The road includes a 1-kilometre-long flyover, easing congestion in some of Lahore’s busiest intersections. It directly connects to:

Kalma Chowk

Ferozepur Road

Gulberg Main Boulevard

Walton Road

Lahore Ring Road

This connectivity is expected to dramatically reduce travel times in central Lahore.

4. Multimodal Access

Route 47 has been built with inclusivity and safety in mind:

Dedicated pedestrian lanes

Separate bicycle tracks

Better urban mobility options for all citizens

Transforming Walton Airport into a Modern Business District

Route 47 passes through what was once Walton Airport (Currently Lahore uses is own Allama Iqbal International Aiport LHE), a historic airfield now repurposed as the site of Lahore’s new Central Business District. This 300-acre development is designed as a vertical commercial zone, aiming to:

Maximize land use efficiency

Attract international investment

Serve as a technology and innovation hub

CBD Infrastructure Already Developed:

New sewage pipelines

Modern stormwater management systems

Two large-scale parking plazas

A nearly complete artificial rainwater lake

Officials say these developments make the CBD one of Pakistan’s most future-ready urban zones.

Economic and Environmental Impact

Environmental Benefits

The energy generated by Route 47 can supply power to small neighborhoods or commercial units, reducing the city's reliance on the national grid. This contributes to:

Lower carbon emissions

Improved air quality

Promotion of solar technology in infrastructure

Economic Development Potential

The road is expected to boost economic activity by:

Enhancing access to Lahore’s commercial hotspots

Supporting the rise of new high-rise office and retail buildings

Attracting technology firms and start-ups to the CBD

Government’s Vision for Smart Cities

Route 47 marks a milestone in Pakistan’s urban development agenda. It is part of a broader vision to:

Develop smart cities

Modernize infrastructure

Encourage green and sustainable growth

The launch of Route 47 is also a signal to global investors and tech industries that Pakistan is ready to host next-generation urban ecosystems.

What Citizens Can Expect

Immediate Benefits

Faster commutes through reduced traffic

Safer travel with pedestrian and bicycle lanes

A more pleasant walking environment with shaded sidewalks

Aesthetically pleasing and well-organized public spaces

Long-Term Expectations

Increased property values in surrounding areas

Attraction of international businesses

Opportunities for green jobs and urban innovation

A Landmark Moment for Urban Development in Pakistan

With the imminent launch of Route 47, Lahore is setting a new standard for what urban infrastructure can achieve. The road is more than just a means of transport—it's a symbol of innovation, sustainability, and forward-thinking governance.

As other cities in Pakistan look to modernize, Route 47 will likely serve as a model for future projects that blend technology, energy efficiency, and smart city design.