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Thursday November 07, 2024

Pakistan to announce EV Policy on 30th

The new policy aims to establish 10,000 EV charging stations across the country by 2030

By Israr Khan
November 07, 2024
A representational image of an electric vehicle being charged at a charging station. — Reuters/File
A representational image of an electric vehicle being charged at a charging station. — Reuters/File

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan is poised to unveil its second electric vehicle (EV) policy by November 30, further advancing its commitment to sustainable, eco-friendly transportation.

The new policy, a key part of the government’s green initiative, aims to establish 10,000 EV charging stations across the country by 2030, marking a major milestone in Pakistan’s push to transform its transportation sector.

The government’s plan comes at a time when the electric vehicle industry is gaining significant traction. A total of 31 companies have shown interest in investing in the EV sector, with two firms already granted approval to begin local manufacturing of electric vehicles. This growing investment indicates a promising shift toward electric mobility in Pakistan.

Minister for Industries and Production Rana Tanveer Hussain, speaking at an exhibition showcasing electric bike models organized by the Engineering Development Board (EDB), emphasized the government’s resolve to reduce reliance on fossil fuels and cut down on carbon emissions. “This initiative will help transform Pakistan into a regional hub for electric mobility,” he stated, underscoring the government’s efforts to foster a thriving green economy.

Hussain also revealed that Pakistan was now in a position to export three-wheelers, a move he hailed as a significant milestone for the country’s electric vehicle industry. The development reflects growing confidence in the local manufacturing capabilities for EVs.

Moreover, Hussain highlighted that the Punjab government was actively pursuing initiatives to promote electric two- and three-wheelers, further expanding the market for electric vehicles across the country.

To incentivize the adoption of electric vehicles, the government is launching a programme aimed at awarding 100 electric bikes to students based on merit. The bikes will be distributed through a transparent bidding process. With Rs4 billion allocated for electric motorcycles, Hussain emphasized that the private sector’s involvement will be crucial to driving forward the local production of electric vehicles a key aspect of Pakistan’s broader economic development. “This shift towards green transportation is set to benefit both the economy and environment,” Hussain remarked. He reaffirmed that the government’s strategic efforts would pave the way for a cleaner, more sustainable future for Pakistan’s transportation sector.