Punjab Finance Minister Mian Mujtaba Shuja-ur-Rehman has reiterated that promoting eco-friendly transport is a key priority for the provincial government, according to Beyond Time News.
He made the remarks while attending a hybrid vehicle launch event in Lahore on Saturday.
Shift Toward Electric and Hybrid Vehicles
The minister said Punjab is encouraging the use of electric and hybrid vehicles to reduce pollution and support affordable transport.
He added that incentives for electric vehicle registration are already in place. Under the directives of Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz, government departments will gradually switch to electric and hybrid vehicles.
EV Charging Stations Planned
He announced that the upcoming provincial budget will include a plan to set up electric vehicle charging stations across Punjab.
A proposal to reduce duties on electric vehicles has also been forwarded to the federal government and is currently under review.
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Steps to Reduce Fuel Burden
The minister said the government is taking measures to ease the impact of rising fuel prices. He noted that the federal government has provided a Rs129 billion fuel subsidy in recent months.
In Punjab, free public transport has been introduced in some areas, while government departments have cut fuel usage by up to 50%. Cabinet fuel perks have also been withdrawn under austerity measures.
Push for Sustainable Mobility
He also said the government may consider support for fuel-efficient bicycles if fuel prices increase further, encouraging low-cost and environment-friendly transport.
He emphasized that these steps aim to improve energy efficiency, reduce costs, and ensure public welfare.
