The Minister for Industries and Production, Rana Tanveer Hussain, has taken significant steps to advance Pakistan’s electric vehicle (EV) initiatives. On Thursday, the minister directed the Capital Development Authority (CDA) to install EV charging stations at all petrol pumps operating in Islamabad. This move is part of a broader effort to transform the capital into a model city for sustainability and innovation.
Islamabad: A Model for Green Mobility
During the fourth meeting of the Electric Vehicles (EV) Policy, the minister lauded CDA’s efforts to promote environmentally friendly transportation in Islamabad. He affirmed that the city would be developed as a shining example of green mobility, aligned with the Prime Minister’s vision of sustainable urban development.
In a news release, Rana Tanveer Hussain also announced that a new Electric Vehicles Policy would be unveiled soon. The updated policy is expected to provide a roadmap for expanding EV adoption and building the necessary infrastructure nationwide.
Incentives for EV Adoption
To encourage the use of EVs, the government plans to introduce multiple incentives for individuals and businesses. Among the most notable initiatives is the distribution of free electric bikes to the top 120 students of the Federal Board of Intermediate and Secondary Education. Additionally, 39,000 electric bikes and 1,900 electric rickshaws will be made available on concessional loans, making EVs more accessible to the public.
Expanding Charging Infrastructure
The minister reviewed the progress on constructing 40 EV charging stations along motorways and national highways. He emphasized the importance of digitizing the entire process to ensure transparency and efficiency in implementation. Once operational, these charging stations will facilitate long-distance travel for EV owners, addressing one of the critical concerns in EV adoption.
Key Takeaways from the EV Policy Meeting
- CDA’s Role: All petrol pumps in Islamabad will soon feature EV charging stations.
- New EV Policy: A revised and comprehensive Electric Vehicles Policy is set to be unveiled shortly.
- Student Incentives: Top-performing students will receive free electric bikes to promote clean mobility among the youth.
- Concessional Loans: Affordable loans for electric bikes and rickshaws will make EVs accessible to a broader audience.
- Infrastructure Expansion: Construction of charging stations along major highways is progressing, with a focus on digitization for transparency.
A Greener Future for Pakistan
These initiatives mark a significant step towards reducing carbon emissions and modernizing Pakistan’s transportation sector. By prioritizing EV infrastructure and offering incentives, the government aims to position Islamabad as a leading example of sustainable urban living.
As the EV ecosystem expands, these developments signal a promising future for electric mobility in Pakistan, ensuring cleaner cities and a greener environment for future generations.
Stay tuned for updates as the new Electric Vehicles Policy is unveiled and more initiatives take shape.
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