Punjab E-Taxi Scheme to Launch in August with Special Fleet for Women Drivers

In a progressive step towards sustainable transportation and gender inclusion, the Punjab government is all set to launch its much-awaited Punjab E-Taxi Scheme in August 2025. Spearheaded by Punjab Transport Minister Bilal Akbar Khan, the initiative aims to introduce eco-friendly electric taxis across the province while creating more opportunities for women in the public transport sector.

According to official sources, all key preparations have been completed, and the scheme’s official rollout will take place within two weeks. In collaboration with the Punjab Information Technology Board (PITB), an online application portal is being developed to streamline registrations and ensure transparency throughout the process.

1,100 Electric Taxis in First Phase

In its first phase, the Punjab E-Taxi Scheme will deploy 1,100 electric taxis for various segments of the market, including fleet operators, individual drivers, and popular ride-hailing services. The government has shortlisted nine firms to supply these electric vehicles, ensuring that the project is supported by reputable providers with the capacity to deliver, maintain, and service the fleet.

A standout feature of this scheme is its commitment to empowering women — 30 electric taxis have been exclusively allocated for female drivers. This move aims to boost women’s participation in the public transportation workforce and provide them with safer, cleaner, and more reliable vehicles to operate.

Interest-Free Financing and Government Support

To make these electric taxis more accessible, the government will offer them on simple, interest-free payment plans, covering the markup, registration costs, and token taxes. Out of the total fleet, 1,000 taxis will be distributed to fleet operators, each required to acquire a minimum of ten cars. The remaining 100 vehicles will be allocated to individual drivers, including the dedicated fleet for women.

To ensure long-term operational success, the selected vehicle suppliers will also set up essential support infrastructure such as maintenance workshops, spare parts centers, and electric charging stations across Punjab. This will make it easier for drivers to maintain their vehicles and ensure uninterrupted service for passengers.

Boosting Green Mobility and Economic Inclusion

The Punjab E-Taxi Scheme is a vital part of the province’s push towards green urban mobility, aiming to reduce air pollution, lower carbon emissions, and modernize the public transport sector. By encouraging the use of electric vehicles, the scheme aligns with Pakistan’s broader commitment to clean energy and sustainable development.

Moreover, by specifically designating vehicles for women, the program addresses social barriers that have historically limited women’s participation in the transport industry. It also promotes economic inclusion and creates new income opportunities for women entrepreneurs and drivers.

With its official launch just around the corner, the Punjab E-Taxi Scheme is poised to set a strong precedent for other provinces to follow. If implemented successfully, this initiative could reshape Punjab’s transport ecosystem — making it greener, more inclusive, and better equipped for the future of urban mobility.

Afsheen Gohar

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