The Punjab government has officially rolled out a PKR 4 billion E-Taxi scheme, a strategic move designed to slash unemployment, champion women’s financial independence, and modernize the province's transport with eco-friendly technology.
Speaking at the launch, Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz confirmed that Punjab is the first province in Pakistan to pilot an electric taxi fleet. The initial phase will see 1,100 electric vehicles hit the road, distributed among both male and female drivers.
Key Features of the Scheme
The provincial government is offering significant financial backing to ensure the program's accessibility:
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Subsidized Down Payments: The government will cover 50% of the down payment for men and 60% for women.
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Dedicated Female Quota: 30% of the fleet is strictly reserved for women, with these taxis featuring a distinct color for easy identification.
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Zero Initial Overhead: The state will handle all costs related to vehicle registration, fitness certifications, and token taxes.
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Manageable Repayment: Drivers can settle the remaining balance through an affordable five-year installment plan.
Safety and Earnings Potential
To maximize utility and income, these E-Taxis will be integrated with popular ride-hailing apps In-Drive and Yango. Chief Minister Nawaz estimated that participating drivers could see monthly earnings ranging from PKR 150,000 to PKR 200,000.
Security remains a top priority, especially for female operators:
Each vehicle is equipped with a Panic Button directly linked to the Punjab Safe Cities Authority (PSCA) for immediate emergency response.
CM Nawaz urged women to enter the workforce with confidence, emphasizing a zero-tolerance policy for harassment or interference. This initiative marks a significant leap toward sustainable urban mobility while creating a safer, more inclusive economic landscape for the people of Punjab.
