Punjab plans e-taxi service on Chinese pattern

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Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif has instructed Provincial Transport Minister Bilal Akbar Khan to implement an e-taxi service across the province, following the model of China’s electric taxi system.

The Punjab transport department has already started laying the foundation for the project, with discussions underway with multiple electric vehicle manufacturers.

Major stakeholders, such as the Deewan Group and the National Radio & Telecommunication Corporation (NRTC), have shown interest in partnering for the initiative, according to local media report.

In the initial phase, the e-taxi service will launch in Lahore and divisional headquarters, with plans to extend the service to other major cities across Punjab. The service will operate 24/7, offering citizens an affordable, eco-friendly transportation alternative.

Officials anticipate that the introduction of e-taxis will enhance access to cost-effective travel options while slightly affecting employment in the traditional taxi industry. This project is part of the government's wider effort to promote sustainable urban mobility across the province.

Additionally, the Punjab government has initiated the procurement of electric buses for Faisalabad and Bahawalpur. This initiative aims to tackle significant transportation issues, including the shortage of quality public transport, heavy traffic congestion, and environmental concerns such as smog.

The project prioritises sustainability by introducing eco-friendly electric buses to public transportation in these cities. To ensure high-quality standards, the procurement process will include a rigorous pre-qualification of firms, based on strict criteria.

Eligible firms must meet several requirements: a minimum net worth of $200 million, an annual turnover of $600 million from bus production, and at least five years of experience manufacturing buses (7.5 meters and above).