LAHORE: Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif has launched the Punjab e Taxi Scheme. This is the first program of its kind in Pakistan. The scheme aims to provide electric taxis and create new job opportunities.
In the first phase, the government will provide 1,100 electric vehicles. Women have been given a 30 percent quota. Special colored taxis will be allocated for women drivers to ensure clear identification.
The Punjab government will pay 50 percent down payment for male drivers. For women drivers, the government will pay 60 percent down payment. The remaining amount will be paid in easy installments over five years.
The government will also pay vehicle registration, fitness test, and token tax fees. This step will reduce the financial burden on drivers and make it easier to join the program.
For safety, every taxi will have a pink button. It will be connected to the Punjab Safe City Authority. This feature will help drivers and passengers in emergency situations.
These electric taxis will be registered with ride-hailing platforms like inDrive and Yango. Fast charging stations will also be installed at public places to support electric vehicles.
Digital payment facility will also be available. This will make payments easier and more transparent for drivers and passengers.
