Lahore, January 2, 2025: Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif has directed Provincial Transport Minister Bilal Akbar Khan to implement an electric taxi service across the province, inspired by China’s successful e-taxi model.
The Punjab Transport Department has begun groundwork for the project, engaging in discussions with multiple electric vehicle manufacturers. According to local reports, prominent stakeholders, including the Deewan Group and the National Radio & Telecommunication Corporation (NRTC), have expressed interest in collaborating on the initiative.
The e-taxi service will initially roll out in Lahore and divisional headquarters, with plans to expand to other major cities in Punjab. Operating 24/7, the service aims to provide an eco-friendly, affordable transportation alternative for citizens, reducing reliance on traditional fuel-based vehicles.
Officials believe the initiative will not only improve urban mobility but also promote sustainability. However, the project is expected to have a marginal impact on traditional taxi operators, which the government plans to address with transition support programs.
As part of its commitment to eco-friendly urban development, the Punjab government is also procuring electric buses for Faisalabad and Bahawalpur. This initiative is designed to address persistent transportation challenges, including inadequate public transit, heavy traffic congestion, and environmental issues such as smog.
Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif described the project as a cornerstone of the government’s vision for sustainable urban development. “The e-taxi service and electric buses are critical steps toward making Punjab a leader in eco-friendly and cost-effective urban transport,” she stated.
With these initiatives, the Punjab government aims to create a cleaner, more efficient public transportation system, aligning with global trends toward sustainable urban mobility.
