The Punjab government has approved the launch of its long-awaited e-taxi project, starting with a pilot phase involving 1,100 electric taxis supported by solar-powered charging infrastructure.
The decision came during a special meeting chaired by Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif, focused on reviewing mass transit and eco-friendly transport initiatives.
During the session, officials presented the feasibility study for the Yellow Line mass transit project and provided an in-depth briefing on the electric taxi initiative. The meeting granted preliminary approval for the project’s financial structure and confirmed the rollout of the pilot phase.
It was also decided that the electric taxis would be supported by solar-powered charging stations, with plans to integrate these at existing petrol pump locations. The government aims to provide subsidies under the e-taxi scheme to encourage adoption and reduce environmental impact.
In addition, officials were directed to identify new routes for Gujranwala’s mass transit system, with Chief Minister Maryam emphasizing that route planning must prioritize public convenience. She also ordered immediate commencement of construction on the Yellow Line corridor, stretching from Jinnah Terminal to Harbanspura.
The meeting concluded with a detailed discussion on the e-taxi project’s implementation strategy and support measures.
Separately, CM Maryam Nawaz announced free medical treatment for Pakistani patients who were recently sent back from India due to escalating tensions between the two countries, which interrupted their care before completion.
