The Metro Bus system connecting Islamabad and Rawalpindi stands as one of Pakistan’s most successful public transportation projects. Since its completion in 2015 after five years of development, this billion-rupee infrastructure has revolutionized how residents and visitors travel between the twin cities.
With dedicated bus lanes, modern air-conditioned vehicles running on eco-friendly fuel, and 38 strategically located stations, the Metro Bus offers a reliable, comfortable, and environmentally conscious travel option. The system has significantly reduced traffic congestion and travel times while maintaining punctual service throughout the day.
Key Features at a Glance
Coverage & Fleet:
- Line 1: 23 kilometers with 24 stations
- Line 2: 25.6 kilometers with 14 stations
- 68 buses total (60 currently operational)
Service Details:
- Operating hours: 6:15 AM to 10:00 PM
- Fare: PKR 40 per journey
- Bus frequency: Every 5 minutes
- Passenger capacity: 1,900-2,400 per bus
Premium Amenities:
- Complimentary WiFi throughout the journey
- Fully air-conditioned buses for year-round comfort
- Modern elevators and escalators at stations
- Accessible design for passengers with disabilities
Route Information
Line 1: Pak Secretariat to Saddar
This flagship route spans 23 kilometers, connecting Islamabad’s administrative heart with Rawalpindi’s bustling commercial center. Key areas served include:
- Blue Area – Islamabad’s main business district
- Aabpara – Cultural and shopping hub
- Faizabad – Major residential area
- Chandni Chowk – Historic commercial center in Rawalpindi
Complete Station List: Pak Secretariat → Parade Ground → Shaheed-e-Millat → 7th Avenue → Stock Exchange → PIMS → Kachehry → Ibn-e-Sina → Chaman → Kashmir Highway → Faiz Ahmed Faiz → Khayaban-e-Johar → Potohar → IJP → Faizabad → Shamsabad → 6th Road → Rehmanabad → Chandni Chowk → Waris Khan → Committee Chowk → Liaqat Bagh → Marrir Chowk → Saddar
Line 2: Kashmir Highway to Islamabad Airport
The 25.6-kilometer airport shuttle provides direct connectivity from central areas to the New Islamabad International Airport, making it invaluable for travelers and airport employees.
Complete Station List: Kashmir Highway → H-9/G-9 → IIUI/G-10 → High Court → H-11/G-11 → NUST/G-12 (East) → NUST/G-12 (West) → Golra Mor/G-13 → Grand Trunk Road → Jammu & Kashmir/G-15 → Badhana Kalan/G-16 → M1/M2 Interchange → Rakh Pind Ranjha → Islamabad Airport
Ticketing and Payment Options
Fare Structure
A single journey costs just PKR 40, making it one of the most affordable transportation options in the region. Tickets can be purchased at any station using two convenient methods:
Metro Bus Card (Recommended for Regular Users):
- Ideal for daily commuters, students, and office workers
- Eliminates queuing time for token purchases
- Rechargeable and reusable
- Faster entry through turnstiles
Single-Use Tokens:
- Perfect for occasional travelers and tourists
- Valid for one journey only
- Must be used within one hour of purchase
- Available at all station counters
Performance and Reliability
The Metro Bus system has earned a reputation for exceptional reliability and efficiency. With buses arriving every five minutes during peak hours, passengers rarely experience long waiting times. The dedicated bus lanes ensure consistent travel times regardless of general traffic conditions.
The system’s punctuality makes it particularly valuable for time-sensitive journeys, whether you’re catching a flight, attending business meetings, or getting to educational institutions on schedule.
Why Choose Metro Bus?
Environmental Benefits: The eco-friendly fuel system contributes to reduced emissions and cleaner air quality in both cities.
Time Efficiency: Dedicated lanes mean faster, more predictable journey times compared to regular traffic.
Cost-Effective: At PKR 40 per journey, it’s significantly cheaper than private transportation options.
Comfort: Air conditioning, WiFi, and modern amenities ensure a pleasant travel experience.
Accessibility: Elevators and escalators make the system accessible to all passengers, including those with mobility challenges.
Final Thoughts
The Islamabad-Rawalpindi Metro Bus represents a transformative leap in public transportation for the twin cities. Its combination of modern technology, environmental consciousness, and affordable pricing has made it an indispensable service for residents, students, professionals, and visitors alike.
Whether you’re commuting daily between cities, heading to the airport, or exploring the region as a tourist, the Metro Bus offers a reliable, comfortable, and economical way to travel. With its proven track record of punctuality and comprehensive route coverage, it continues to set the standard for urban transportation in Pakistan.
