The Punjab government is set to introduce a new initiative focused on public transport and youth empowerment: the CM Punjab Green E-Taxi Program. This scheme aims to facilitate transportation through the distribution of electric taxis (E-Taxis) across the province, aligning with the Chief Minister’s stated vision for a more environmentally conscious Punjab.
In its initial phase, the program intends to distribute 1,100 electric taxis. The plan includes offering installment arrangements to individuals, including unemployed youth and women, which are stated to be interest-free.
Electric Taxi Program – Key Aspects
The program’s design incorporates several points of focus:
- Vehicle Distribution: A total of 1,100 electric taxis are planned for distribution during the first phase. These vehicles are intended to be provided through an installment system that does not include interest charges.
- Local Manufacturing Partnership: The taxis involved in the program include Honri VC20 and VC30 models. These vehicles are being sourced through a partnership with Dewan Motors, and are reported to offer driving ranges of 200 km and 300 km per charge, respectively.
- Environmental Considerations: As fully electric vehicles, the taxis are designed to produce no direct emissions and operate quietly. This is intended to contribute to reduced air and noise pollution in urban centers such as Lahore, Rawalpindi, and Multan.
- Charging Infrastructure: Plans are in place to establish electric vehicle charging stations. In Lahore, these stations are expected to be installed approximately every 3 kilometers, with further expansion across Punjab anticipated.
- Targeted Beneficiaries: The program is structured to include various segments of the population. Specific attention is being given to women, individuals with disabilities, and youth residing in rural areas.
Application Process
According to Transport Minister Bilal Akbar Khan, the application procedure for the program will be designed to be straightforward and accessible. The program seeks to engage a diverse group of participants, including:
- Young job seekers
- Women in both urban and rural settings
- Individuals with disabilities
- Residents of areas identified as underserved
The government plans to conduct an information campaign using various media, including television, social media, and newspapers, to provide details on how and when to apply.
Reports indicate that over 60,000 applications have already been received for the program, prior to its official public launch. This response reflects existing interest in the initiative among the population.
