More jobs: Pakistan rolls out e-taxis on easy, interest free instalments

Dubai: Punjab government in Pakistan is gearing up to officially launch its much-anticipated Green e-Taxi Program this August, a bold step toward sustainable transport and economic inclusion.

The provincial transport department has finalised the groundwork, with the initial roll-out scheduled within two weeks.

The e-taxis will not only help to reduce pollution but also create thousands of job opportunities for unemployed youth. The scheme will distribute electric taxis across the province, with interest-free instalment plans and government-covered registration costs, making vehicle ownership accessible to young job seekers for the first time.

Interest-free loan

As part of the first phase, 1,100 fully electric taxis will be distributed on easy, interest-free instalments. A dedicated allocation of 30 e-taxis for women is a key feature of the scheme, designed to enhance female participation in the public transport sector.

Punjab Transport Minister Bilal Akbar Khan, said: “We are building a cleaner, smarter, and more inclusive transport system for Punjab.” He also confirmed that an online application portal is being developed in collaboration with the Punjab Information Technology Board (PITB) to streamline the process.

“The Punjab Green E-Taxi Program is not just about vehicles — it’s about empowering citizens, reducing emissions, and steering the province toward a cleaner, more equitable future,” he added.

Nine suppliers have been shortlisted to provide the vehicles, including the locally assembled Honri VC20 and VC30 models. These electric cars offer a range of 200—300km per charge, supported by charging stations every 3km in Lahore, with provincewide expansion planned.

The provincial government will cover key costs such as markup, token tax, and registration fees, making ownership even more affordable.

To support long-term success, selected suppliers will also set up service centres, spare parts facilities, and EV charging infrastructure across Punjab.

With over 60,000 applications already submitted, demand is surging even before the official public campaign begins. The application process is expected to be simple and accessible, with details to be shared via TV, social media, and newspapers in the coming weeks.

This flagship initiative aligns with Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz’s vision of a greener, inclusive Punjab, offering modern mobility solutions while addressing pressing economic and environmental challenges.