LAHORE: As Punjab continues to grapple with severe air pollution indicators, the interim provincial government has unveiled plans to introduce 26,000 electric vehicles into urban traffic.
The electric vehicles will be distributed through the “Green Wheels Program,” targeting students, low-income citizens, women, and individuals with disabilities, as announced by interim Punjab Minister for Transport, Ibrahim Hasan Murad.
In an interview with a private news channel, the minister disclosed that a significant portion, specifically 10,000 electric motorcycles, will be allocated to university students.
Furthermore, the initiative includes the provision of interest-free E-bikes for women, three-wheeler bikes for individuals with disabilities, and interest-free E-rickshaws for deserving recipients.
Acknowledging the urgency to address pollution, Murad emphasized that the program targets the root cause by focusing on the 70–80% pollution contribution from the transportation sector.
“Punjab’s commitment to sustainable transportation is not merely a step forward; it signifies a significant move towards a greener, cleaner future,” Murad stated.
The minister highlighted another noteworthy achievement—the issuance of electric vehicle (EV) licenses for the first time in Pakistan. This step not only promotes the adoption of environmentally friendly transportation methods but also positions the country at the forefront of embracing innovative solutions for a cleaner environment.
Murad noted that five major cities, including Lahore, Rawalpindi, Faisalabad, Multan, and Bahawalpur, have been designated as models for electric vehicles.
Addressing concerns about charging stations, the transport minister reassured that the comprehensive plan incorporates infrastructure development for charging stations, ensuring a robust network to support the transition to electric vehicles.
(Islamabad51_Newsdesk)
