PTBP Web Desk
Federal Minister for Industries and Production Rana Tanveer Hussain has expressed optimism about transforming Islamabad into a “model city” for electric vehicle (EV) adoption. The announcement underscores the government’s commitment to promoting eco-friendly transport solutions and reducing the nation’s carbon footprint.
The minister shared his vision during the fourth meeting on the Electric Vehicles (EV) Policy, which he chaired. According to the Ministry of Industries and Production, the meeting focused on reviewing the progress of the EV Policy and identifying areas for improvement.
Rana Tanveer Hussain commended the efforts of the Capital Development Authority (CDA) in supporting EV adoption and emphasized the need for further infrastructure development. He directed the CDA to install EV charging stations at all petrol pumps across Islamabad to meet the growing demand for electric vehicles. The initiative aims to create a robust network of charging facilities, making EVs a practical choice for citizens.
To encourage the use of electric vehicles, the minister announced several initiatives. Among the highlights is the decision to award free electric bikes to the top 120 Federal Board students, recognizing academic excellence and promoting green transportation simultaneously. Additionally, the government plans to provide 39,000 e-bikes and 1,900 electric rickshaws on subsidized loans, making EVs more accessible to the general public.
During the meeting, the participants also reviewed the progress on constructing 40 EV charging stations along motorways and highways. These stations will serve as a critical component of Pakistan’s EV ecosystem, enabling long-distance travel without range anxiety.
Minister Rana Tanveer Hussain highlighted the importance of digitizing all processes related to EV policy implementation. He emphasized that digitization would ensure transparency and provide easy access to information for stakeholders, further facilitating the adoption of electric vehicles.
Aligning with the Prime Minister’s vision for an environmentally sustainable Pakistan, the minister reiterated the government’s dedication to transforming Islamabad into a model city for EVs. “In line with the Prime Minister’s vision, Islamabad will become a model city with widespread use of electric vehicles,” he stated.
The government’s initiatives aim to position Pakistan as a regional leader in the adoption of new energy vehicles (NEVs). By encouraging local manufacturing and early adoption, the EV Policy seeks to establish a sustainable transport system that reduces dependence on fossil fuels and curbs greenhouse gas emissions.
Rana Tanveer Hussain concluded the meeting by announcing that the Electric Vehicles Policy will be launched soon. The policy is expected to provide a comprehensive framework for promoting EV usage, supporting local manufacturing, and ensuring affordability for consumers. Last month, the minister indicated that the EV Policy would be unveiled by the end of November, marking a pivotal step in the country’s transition towards eco-friendly transportation.
The Electric Vehicles Policy represents a significant opportunity for Pakistan to embrace sustainable transport solutions. With initiatives like subsidized loans, free e-bikes, and extensive charging infrastructure, the government aims to make EVs accessible to a broader population. These efforts not only support environmental goals but also promote technological innovation and local industry growth.
The adoption of EVs is poised to reduce air pollution, lower fuel import costs, and enhance energy security. By positioning Islamabad as a model city, the government hopes to inspire other regions to follow suit, creating a nationwide movement towards sustainable transport.
