LAHORE (HRNW): Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif formally launched Pakistan’s first-ever Electric Taxi (E-Taxi) Scheme on Thursday, February 26, 2026. This landmark initiative aims to modernize urban transport while providing eco-friendly employment opportunities. In its initial phase, the government will distribute 1,100 electric vehicles (EVs) to eligible applicants.
Incentives and Financial Structure
To ensure the program is accessible to low-income drivers, the Punjab government has introduced a heavily subsidized financing model:
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Subsidized Down Payment: The government will pay 50% of the down payment for male drivers and 60% for female drivers.
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Fee Waivers: The provincial government will bear all costs related to vehicle registration, fitness tests, and token taxes.
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Repayment Plan: Beneficiaries can repay the remaining balance through easy installments over a five-year period.
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Income Potential: Officials estimate that drivers could earn between Rs 150,000 and Rs 200,000 per month through the scheme.
Focus on Women Empowerment and Safety
A significant feature of the scheme is the 30% quota reserved exclusively for women. To enhance visibility and safety:
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Distinct Branding: Taxis operated by female drivers will feature a distinctive color (pink/green) for easy identification.
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Safety Integration: Every vehicle is equipped with a Panic Button directly linked to the Punjab Safe Cities Authority (PSCA) for immediate emergency response.
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Digital Integration: The E-Taxis will be integrated with popular ride-hailing apps like InDrive and Yango and will support digital payment systems.
The Chief Minister also announced that fast-charging stations will be installed at key public locations across the province to support the new fleet. This project is part of a broader “Green Mobility” vision, which will soon include the launch of Green Bus services in every tehsil and a trackless train project in the province.
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