All set to roll out e-cab service

Punjab govt move aims to introduce e-friendly, affordable service

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LAHORE:

The Punjab government has announced plans to introduce the province's first electric taxi (e-taxi) service for promoting eco-friendly and affordable transportation.

Representatives of electric vehicle manufacturing companies expressed strong interest in the project during a seminar organised to discuss the initiative, signalling potential private-sector collaboration.

Punjab Transport Minister Bilal Akbar has been directed to expedite the project, which is set to create employment opportunities for youth.

He presided over seminar to discuss the initiative, which brought together stakeholders from government departments, electric vehicle (EV) manufacturers, transport companies and industry experts. Punjab Secretary for Transport and Mass Transit Ahmed Javed Qazi briefed the participants on the project's features and objectives.

Discussions at the seminar addressed key aspects of the initiative, including vehicle types, pricing structures, operational services and technical considerations.

Proposals were also shared on establishing EV charging stations, setting battery standards and ensuring a steady supply of spare parts for electric vehicles. Minister Akbar highlighted Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz's vision for the project, which aims to tackle unemployment while offering high-quality and affordable vehicles for public use.

He said the initiative would modernise Punjab's transportation infrastructure and contribute to reducing air pollution.

"The e-taxi scheme is a step forward in providing affordable and eco-friendly transportation for the public while simultaneously reducing unemployment," Akbar said.

"Punjab is rapidly moving toward modern and sustainable transportation solutions," he added.

Sindh Information Minister Sharjeel Inam Memon had also announced plans to introduce electric vehicle taxis in Karachi for creating employment opportunities and reducing pollution. The Sindh government had initially unveiled plans for EV taxis, including a "pink taxi" service for women, in July 2024.