Punjab Electric Taxi Scheme Launch Date Revealed

Punjab’s Transport Minister Bilal Yasin has announced the launch of a new electric taxi scheme aimed at creating employment and promoting sustainable transport.

The initiative will become operational within the next 15 days and is designed to provide a source of income for unemployed individuals.

According to officials, the scheme will introduce new electric taxis and bikes with ownership offered on interest-free instalments to make them accessible for low-income groups.

The announcement was made during Pakistan’s first Transport Expo as part of the province’s Transport 2030 Vision.

Broader Transport Plans

Alongside the taxi scheme, Bilal Yasin highlighted the province’s plans to roll out Lahore’s first tram service. The tram is expected to begin operations by February next year, initially running along Jail Road and Main Boulevard, with future extensions planned to Canal Road.

The Transport Expo also outlined plans for the construction of 41 modern depots across Punjab. Starting in December 2025, electric buses will be deployed, leading up to the introduction of 1,100 electric buses and trams by 2030. Testing of autonomous vehicles is also planned.

Infrastructure and Sustainability Goals

To support these initiatives, the government is working on the installation of 1,000 electric vehicle charging stations. The Transport 2030 Vision sets a target of converting 80% of the province’s transport network to electric by 2030, with the electric taxi scheme serving as a central component of this strategy.

Sindh’s Parallel Initiative

In a separate development, the Sindh Workers Welfare Board announced plans to distribute 10,000 free electric motorcycles to female industrial workers. Sindh Labour Minister Shahid Thaheem said the program is aimed at improving mobility for women and supporting sustainable transport solutions.