Punjab to Launch 24/7 E-Taxi Service!

Punjab is gearing up to introduce an exciting new initiative – a 24/7 E-Taxi service that will revolutionize transportation in Lahore and other major cities across the province. This new service, inspired by China’s highly successful electric cab systems, promises to provide citizens with eco-friendly, affordable, and accessible travel options. Authorities in Punjab are working tirelessly to bring this ambitious project to life.

The launch of the E-Taxi service has been greenlit by Punjab’s provincial government, with Provincial Minister for Transport, Bilal Akbar Khan, leading the efforts. Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif has tasked him with overseeing the project, which is expected to serve as a model for other regions in Pakistan. The E-Taxi system will initially focus on Lahore, the bustling capital city, as well as its surrounding areas. However, the ultimate goal is to expand the service to cover the entire province, including other major cities like Faisalabad, Bahawalpur, and Rawalpindi.

Electric vehicles (EVs) are at the heart of this initiative. The Punjab Transport Department has already begun discussions with electric vehicle manufacturers to ensure the success of the project. Reports suggest that prominent players in the automotive industry, such as Deewan Group and the National Radio & Telecommunication Corporation (NRTC), are likely to join hands with the Punjab government to make this vision a reality. These collaborations are expected to bring advanced EV technology to the region, ensuring that the E-Taxi service operates smoothly and efficiently.

The E-Taxi service will be available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, offering residents of Lahore and neighboring cities a reliable mode of transportation. The government aims to make this service affordable, ensuring that it remains accessible to people from all walks of life. By providing an affordable alternative to traditional taxis and ride-hailing services, the initiative is expected to help ease the transportation challenges faced by residents of Punjab, especially in urban areas where traffic congestion is a daily struggle.

This move is also part of the Punjab government’s broader vision to promote eco-friendly transport solutions. With air pollution and traffic congestion becoming major issues in urban centers, the E-Taxi service will serve as a sustainable alternative to the conventional, fuel-powered vehicles that contribute to smog and environmental degradation. The introduction of electric taxis will reduce harmful emissions, helping improve air quality and making the streets of Punjab cleaner and greener.

While the E-Taxi service is a major step toward transforming public transport in Punjab, it is also expected to have an impact on the traditional transport sector. While there are concerns that this new service may lead to a reduction in employment opportunities in the conventional taxi industry, the government is committed to ensuring that the transition is smooth and that no one is left behind. Efforts are being made to provide retraining and upskilling opportunities for individuals who may be affected by the shift to electric transport.

In addition to the E-Taxi initiative, the Punjab government is also making strides in improving public transportation across the province. As part of the Green Transport Plan, electric buses are set to be introduced in Faisalabad and Bahawalpur, addressing issues such as traffic congestion and pollution. This move will not only provide a cleaner mode of transportation but will also benefit millions of residents who rely on public transport daily.

The electric buses will operate under strict international standards, with potential bidders for the project required to meet stringent financial and technical criteria. These buses will provide a much-needed alternative to traditional public transport, offering a modern, environmentally friendly option for commuters.

This initiative aligns with global efforts to reduce carbon footprints and tackle climate change. By focusing on electric transport solutions, Punjab is taking significant steps to ensure a sustainable future for its residents, while also setting an example for other provinces and countries looking to adopt similar green initiatives.