Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz on Thursday officially launched the province’s first-ever e-taxi scheme. She said the project is part of the government’s larger plan to build a complete “e-mobility ecosystem” in Punjab.
Speaking at the inauguration ceremony, the chief minister announced that around 1,100 electric taxis will be given to people at subsidised rates. She added that 30 percent of the quota has been reserved for women to encourage their participation in the transport sector.
Calling it a historic step, Maryam Nawaz said Punjab has become the first province in the country to introduce such a scheme. She explained that the project will not only help protect the environment but also create new job opportunities for citizens.
The government has announced a subsidy of up to Rs4 billion for the 1,100 electric cars. Under the plan, buyers are required to make a 30 percent down payment. However, the Punjab government will cover 15 percent of that amount. This means applicants can take the vehicle home by paying Rs690,000.
For women applicants, the relief is even greater. The chief minister stated that the government will bear 60 percent of the down payment cost for women, making it easier for them to own and operate e-taxis.
Maryam Nawaz also highlighted that Punjab is already running green buses as part of its eco-friendly transport system. She shared plans to expand modern transport services to all 148 tehsils across the province.
She announced that within 48 hours, the new pink and green e-taxis will start appearing on the roads of Lahore and other districts.
The chief minister said the initiative marks a major step towards cleaner transport, economic growth, and equal opportunities in Punjab.