Govt unveils phase two of subsidy scheme for e-bikes

ISLAMABAD: The government has released details of the second phase of the subsidy scheme for the purchase of electric bikes, rickshaws, and loaders.

According to official documents, in the first phase, a target of 41,000 vehicles was set; more than 269,000 people submitted applications; however, 41,000 people were selected through a lottery.

So far, 1,334 electric bikes have been provided, while the subsidy amount is also being transferred directly to the accounts of the users.

Under phase two, a subsidy of Rs 80,000 will be given on each electric bike, and another 100,000 electric bikes will be introduced in the next three months.

Government employees of grade 16 or below will be provided with interest-free bikes or rickshaws, for which only an initial payment of Rs 10,000 will be made, with the remaining amount deducted from their salaries in installments.

According to the new policy, the relevant companies will provide vehicles directly to the users, while the government will later pay the subsidy amount to the companies.

A new application process has also been introduced, in which applications will be prioritized on a first-come, first-served basis, while the provincial quota will also be maintained.

In addition, it has been announced to provide free electric bikes to 600 outstanding government college students. A total of 116,000 electric bikes, 3,170 rickshaws, and loaders will be distributed this year, which is expected to result in significant savings in fuel.