Empowering students through access to e-bikes

Punjab govt launches scheme to facilitate students who commute long distances

RAWALPINDI:

To provide affordable transport and make students independent, the Punjab government officially launched the E-Bike Scheme for students at Rawalpindi Medical University.

Under the Chief Minister’s Youth E-Bike Scheme, which prioritizes environmental sustainability and gender inclusivity, 50% of the quota is reserved for female students. Both government and private educational institution students are eligible to apply for e-bikes.

In the first phase, 200 e-bikes will be distributed among students in Rawalpindi, with preference given to those who commute long distances for their education. All applications for e-bikes will be received online.

Provincial Transport Minister Bilal Akbar Khan and Secretary Transport Punjab Ahmad Javed Qazi. MNA Tahira Aurangzeb, Deputy Commissioner Rawalpindi Hassan Waqar Cheema, and Vice Chancellor Rawalpindi Medical University Dr Muhammad Umar attended the ceremony.

Addressing the gathering, Provincial Transport Minister Bilal Akbar Khan emphasised the government's commitment to empowering students through access to e-bikes. The scheme, which aims to combat pollution in Punjab, will distribute 1,000 e-bikes in five cities during its initial phase, with Rawalpindi being one of them. Additionally, plans are underway to distribute 20,000 e-bikes in the second phase.

Female students will benefit equally from the scheme, which extends eligibility to students from all provinces studying in Punjab.

Deputy Commissioner Rawalpindi Hassan Waqar Cheema affirmed that efforts were being made to establish e-bike charging stations in educational institutions, starting with Rawalpindi Medical University and subsequently at other prominent universities, including Fatima Jinnah Women University and the University of Agriculture.

Applicants must have a driving license. Students with a learning license are also eligible for e-bikes. The e-bikes can travel 100 kilometres on a single charge.

Students, including those from private institutions, can submit their applications online, and upon verification, e-bikes will be distributed through their respective educational institutions.

Published in The Express Tribune, April 26^th, 2024.