Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif has officially launched Pakistan’s first E-Taxi Scheme. The initiative is part of the province’s e-mobility plan aimed at modernizing public transport and reducing urban smog. The programme also seeks to create employment opportunities for young people and women.
In the first phase, around 1,100 electric vehicles (EVs) will be provided at highly subsidized rates. The provincial government has set aside Rs4 billion for subsidies under the scheme. Men will receive 50 percent support for the down payment, while women will be given 60 percent assistance. In addition, the costs of vehicle registration, fitness tests, and token taxes will be fully covered by the government.
Through the scheme, drivers are expected to earn between Rs150,000 and Rs200,000 per month. Each vehicle will also be equipped with a panic button connected to the Punjab Safe Cities Authority to ensure quick response in case of emergencies. The cars will include modern features such as cameras, Wi-Fi, and in-car charging ports.
Eligibility for E-Taxi Scheme Punjab
Applicants must:Be a permanent Punjab resident with valid domicile. Hold a valid Pakistani CNIC. Have a valid driving license. Be financially sound and bank-loan compliant. Maintain a clean criminal record.
How to Apply
Applications for the scheme are submitted online through the portal managed by the Punjab Information Technology Board at e-taxi.punjab.gov.pk. Applicants are required to fill out the online form and upload documents including their CNIC, driving license, Punjab domicile, and a reference. After the verification process is completed, the final beneficiaries are selected through a balloting process.
Women’s Quota
Under the programme, 30 percent of the e-taxis will be reserved for women. Vehicles driven by female drivers will feature distinctive pink and green colors to improve visibility and enhance passenger safety. The E-Taxi Scheme launched by Maryam Nawaz Sharif is considered an important step toward promoting environmentally friendly transport, digital services, and economic empowerment for youth and women in Punjab.
