PM Shehbaz Sharif Announces E-Bikes for Outstanding Students and Pushes for E-Vehicles Policy

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has taken a major step towards the promotion of electric vehicles (EVs) in Pakistan by announcing the provision of E-motorbikes to outstanding students from government schools. This announcement, made during a high-level meeting in Islamabad, aligns with the government’s ongoing efforts to encourage eco-friendly transportation and reduce reliance on fossil fuels.

During the meeting, the Prime Minister directed the relevant authorities to finalize Pakistan’s E-Vehicles policy by November after thorough consultation with all federating units and stakeholders. This policy aims to boost the manufacturing and usage of electric vehicles in the country, which will not only cut down the import of expensive petrol and diesel but also benefit the environment.

Comprehensive Financial Model and Licensing Regulations

Shehbaz Sharif emphasized the importance of developing a comprehensive financial model to ensure the success of the electric vehicle (EV) industry. Additionally, he called for improvements in licensing regulations to encourage local manufacturing. By facilitating electric vehicle production, the government aims to make the country self-reliant in vehicle manufacturing and also support the broader goal of reducing carbon emissions.

E-Bikes for Outstanding Students

In a move similar to the laptop scheme launched during his previous tenure, the Prime Minister announced that E-motorbikes will be provided to top-performing students in government schools. This incentive is designed to recognize academic excellence while promoting sustainable transport options for the youth.

Boosting EV Production and Infrastructure

The meeting highlighted significant progress in electric vehicle production. Since 2022, the government has issued 49 licenses for the production of two and three-wheeled electric vehicles at the local level. Out of these, 25 factories have already started manufacturing, showcasing Pakistan’s growing capacity in the EV sector.

In a major breakthrough, the first license for domestic production of four-wheeled electric vehicles was issued in September. The meeting was informed that the first indigenously manufactured electric car will hit the market by December 2024, marking a milestone in Pakistan’s shift towards green transportation.

Infrastructure for Electric Vehicle Charging

To support the widespread adoption of electric vehicles, the government also plans to establish recharging stations on a priority basis across the country. The development of these charging stations will be crucial in ensuring the sustainability of electric vehicles and making them a viable option for daily commuting.

Islamabad’s Electric Public Transport Plan

Furthering his vision for a greener capital, PM Shehbaz Sharif directed the Capital Development Authority (CDA) to devise a comprehensive plan for introducing electric-powered public transport in Islamabad. This plan aims to modernize public transport infrastructure while reducing carbon emissions in the capital city, aligning with global efforts towards sustainable urban mobility.

In conclusion, Pakistan’s push towards electric vehicles reflects the government’s commitment to sustainable development, clean energy, and reducing dependence on fossil fuels. With the combination of incentives for students, infrastructure upgrades, and regulatory improvements, the country is poised to make significant strides in the adoption of electric transportation in the near future.