The Punjab government has announced changes to its Electric Taxi Scheme, making it easier for everyday people to own and operate electric vehicles (EVs). For the first time, the government has set aside a special quota of 100 electric taxis for women drivers, giving them a chance to participate directly in the province’s transport system.
In addition, 200 electric taxis will be reserved for male drivers, increasing opportunities for ordinary citizens to join the eco-friendly transport movement. This change comes as part of the government’s plan to reduce corporate control over the electric taxi market.
Reduced Share for Corporate Operators
Earlier, the plan allowed 1,000 EV taxis for corporate fleet owners and only 100 vehicles for individual drivers. Under the new rules, the number of vehicles reserved for corporate operators has been reduced to 800, giving more space for private citizens.
The government aims to make electric taxis more accessible to the public, rather than being concentrated in the hands of large companies. Punjab Transport Minister stated that this updated allocation model will help ordinary people benefit from electric mobility while also supporting the province’s move toward environmentally friendly transportation.
Learning from Global Models
The Electric Taxi Project was first announced last year and was designed using global best practices, including lessons from China’s EV taxi system. The Punjab Transport Department has already started preliminary work and is in talks with several electric vehicle manufacturers to supply cars for the program.
Companies like the Deewan Group and the National Radio & Telecommunication Corporation (NRTC) have expressed interest in providing EVs for this scheme. This ensures that the vehicles are not only eco-friendly but also reliable and suitable for city transportation.
Phased Rollout Across Punjab
The government plans to launch the scheme in phases, beginning with Lahore and other divisional headquarters. Later, it will expand to major cities across the province, allowing more citizens to participate.
The EV taxis will operate 24 hours a day, seven days a week, offering round-the-clock transportation while reducing air pollution in busy urban areas. By increasing access to electric taxis, the Punjab government hopes to encourage more drivers to switch to clean energy vehicles and help the province meet its environmental goals.
Benefits for Citizens and the Environment
This scheme has several advantages:
- Opportunities for Women: 100 electric taxis reserved for female drivers encourage women to join the transportation sector.
- Opportunities for Men: 200 taxis reserved for male drivers increase public participation.
- Reduced Corporate Dominance: Limiting corporate vehicle allocations ensures more citizens benefit directly.
- Eco-Friendly Transportation: EV taxis produce zero emissions, helping reduce air pollution in cities.
- Round-the-Clock Service: Operating 24/7 ensures passengers have access to reliable and safe transport at all times.
The Punjab government’s revised Electric Taxi Scheme is a step toward inclusive, sustainable, and environmentally friendly transport, making it easier for ordinary men and women to participate in the province’s growing EV network.
