Punjab CM announces 26,000 interest-free e-vehicles for masses

Punjab Chief Minister Mohsin Naqvi unveiled a groundbreaking initiative, announcing the distribution of 26 thousand electric motorbikes and rickshaws to the public on interest-free basis – a groundbreaking milestone in Pakistan’s history. The announcement took place at a special function organized by the Punjab Transport Department at a local hotel, where the chief minister also inaugurated the Qingqi Rickshaw Registration Program across Punjab. Chief Minister Naqvi presented the first license for electric rickshaw manufacturing to the CEO of Sazgar Company, marking the formal commencement of the electric rickshaw industry in Punjab. At the event, he disclosed plans to provide 10,000 electric bikes to students, facilitated by the Bank of Punjab, while another 10,000 electric rickshaws would be supported by Punjab Bank. Notably, 2,000 electric three-wheeler bikes will be granted to special individuals free of interest. Emphasizing environmental concerns, Mohsin Naqvi declared a ban on government-level purchases of petrol-powered motorcycles across Punjab, restricting future acquisitions to electric bikes. He also announced the initiation of the Qingqi Rickshaw Body Standers Program, highlighting the relentless efforts of the transport department in registering Qingqi rickshaws-a task previously deemed impossible. Addressing pollution issues in Lahore, Chief Minister Punjab stressed the need for collective action. He commended Punjab Bank for its support in the Interest-Free Electric Bikes and Electric Rickshaw Programme, particularly applauding the decision to provide interest free electric bikes to students. Drawing inspiration from China’s success with electric vehicles, he envisioned a positive impact on the environment within the next three years if electric bikes gain widespread adoption. In a bid to encourage the shift to electric vehicles, the chief minister emphasized the high quality of electric rickshaws and their role in combating pollution. Plans include providing 10,000 electric rickshaws free of interest and allocating 2,000 three-wheeler bikes to special individuals. Civil secretariat employees, government and private sector women, and government employees will also receive 2,000 electric bikes each, all on a free-of-interest basis. Anticipating a positive transformation in the environment and industry, Mohsin Naqvi expressed hope for an all-electric vehicle landscape in Pakistan’s future. He acknowledged the challenges faced by the transport department, such as implementing axle load restrictions and driving license reforms. Additionally, he praised the dedication and integrity of his cabinet members, highlighting their self-sustenance and commitment to public service. The ceremony saw the presence of Consul General of China Mr. Zhao Shiren, Consul General of America Ms. Kirstin K. Hawkins, Provincial Ministers, SM Tanveer, Mansoor Qadir, Amir Mir, Ibrahim Hasan Murad, Bilal Afzal, Chief Secretary Zahid Akhtar Zaman, Chairman of Bank of Punjab Zafar Masood, Secretary Transport, CCPO, Commissioner Lahore, and senior officials from various companies. The chief minister personally inspected the electric motorbikes, rickshaws, and vehicles, taking a ride in an electric rickshaw and commending its quality. Mohsin Naqvi also inquired about the price and durability of the displayed electric bikes and vehicles. Separately, Chief Minister Punjab Mohsin Naqvi inaugurated the Desilting campaign from the Lahore canal near Muslim Town Morr for removing silt from 17000 km long canals across the province. Provincial Ministers SM Tanveer, Amir Mir, Azfar Ali Nasir, commissioner Lahore, secretary irrigation, CCPO and others were also present. The CM removed silt through the crane, stating that the first phase would continue till January 31, while embankments of 5000 km long canals would be repaired in the second phase, spanning over two months. Water would be available to 3 to 4 lakh acres of land after the desilting of canals; he added and further stated that the desilting drive has been launched after a long gap. While talking to the media men, he added that the silt would be removed from 17000 km long canals in the first phase as services of LIMS have been acquired for round-the-clock monitoring. For this purpose, concerned staff, DCs and commissioners have also been trained through LIMS as this drive would be continuously monitored through satellite images and NESPAK would also monitor it as a third party, he added. CM Naqvi mentioned that complaints have been received about the mixing of drainage water in the Lahore canal at some points, adding that a committee comprising MD WASA and DC would probe the matter, as it could not be allowed. He appealed to the citizens to avoid polluting the canal as the government could not do everything all alone. Meanwhile, the CM also mentioned that 26000 electric bikes and e-rickshaws have been given without interest and no building design was being approved without allocating parking space. Chief Minister Punjab Mohsin Naqvi expressed his concern over the cleanliness issues in the tiles of the newly inaugurated emergency, during his late-night visit to the Punjab Institute of Cardiology (PIC), and directed the commissioner to ensure consistent maintenance for a tidy environment. While interacting with patients, the CM inquired about their well-being and the facilities available for treatment. Patients expressed satisfaction with the free medications and test facilities. Additionally, CM Naqvi directed to complete the upgradation of the ground floor before Jan 31 and emphasized the protection of newly installed tiles during construction activities while inspecting the upgradation work at Services Hospital. He inspected the front portion of the hospital building and urged the authorities to expedite the completion of construction work. Secretary C&W briefed about the upgradation.