Punjab plans 50,000 interest-free e-bikes, 5,000 e-taxis in upcoming budget

The Punjab government has approved a proposal to include the distribution of 50,000 electric bikes and 5,000 electric taxis on an interest-free basis in the upcoming provincial budget, officials said.

The initiative, cleared for inclusion in the budget for the next financial year, aims to provide affordable and environmentally friendly transport while creating employment opportunities for students and unemployed youth.

Punjab Transport Minister Bilal Akbar Khan said beneficiaries of the e-taxi scheme would be offered easy instalment plans and interest-free financing facilities. He added that the government was also considering incentives, including support for vehicle registration.

According to the minister, the programme is intended to help young people become economically active while encouraging the adoption of electric vehicles and reducing pollution.

The proposal comes as the provincial government reviews its transport policies ahead of the new budget.