s Pakistan struggles with escalating challenges of air pollution, urban noise and rising street crime, an opportunity for transformative change is emerging: the replacement of traditional motorcycles with electric scooters (e-scooters). This paradigm shift holds the promise of not only improving the environment but also enhancing public safety, reducing economic burdens and positioning Pakistan as a regional leader in sustainable urban mobility.

The motorcycle predicament

In cities like Karachi, Lahore, Rawalpindi, Peshawar and Islamabad, motorcycles have become synonymous with affordability and convenience for millions of low- and middle-income citizens. Their ability to weave through congested traffic and operate on relatively low fuel costs make them an appealing option. However, this apparent practicality masks the significant challenges motorcycles present to urban environments and public well-being.

Environmental impact

Traditional motorcycles, particularly the two-stroke models common in Pakistan, are notorious for their environmental footprint. These vehicles emit disproportionate levels of carbon monoxide, unburned hydrocarbons and particulate matter, significantly contributing to urban air pollution. Smog, a recurring phenomenon in cities like Lahore, exacerbates respiratory illnesses, reduces visibility and incurs massive economic costs. According to some estimates, air pollution costs Pakistan approximately $1 billion annually in health-related expenses and lost productivity. Motorcycles contribute an estimated $300 million to this burden. Beyond air pollution, motorcycles are contributors to noise pollution, creating a cacophony that affects mental well-being and reduces productivity in urban areas. The constant roar of engines amplifies stress levels, undermining the quality of life for city dwellers.

Urban safety concerns

Motorcycles have also become a tool for urban insecurity. Their speed and agility make them ideal for facilitating street crimes such as theft, mugging and target killing. In Karachi alone, motorcycles were used in more than 60 per cent of the reported street crimes in 2023. Their involvement in high-speed gateways has posed significant challenges for law enforcement agencies. Additionally, motorcycles are disproportionately involved in road traffic accidents. In 2022, they accounted for nearly half of the accidents in Pakistan, resulting in over 6,000 deaths and tens of thousands of serious injuries. Reckless driving and lack of adequate safety measures make motorcycles a major public health concern.

Enter electric scooters

Electric scooters (e-scooters) offer a compelling solution to these challenges. These battery-powered vehicles produce zero tailpipe emissions, making them an environment-friendly alternative. Their adoption can significantly reduce air pollution in urban areas, contributing to cleaner and healthier cities. E-scooters operate almost silently, offering a much-needed respite from the relentless noise pollution caused by traditional motorcycles. This shift could transform urban environments into quieter, more liveable spaces, improving mental health and productivity for millions of residents.

Enhanced safety

Transitioning to e-scooters involves significant upfront investment but promises substantial long-term savings. A financial analysis underscores the economic viability of this shift.

By adopting e-scooters, Pakistan can address two pressing challenges, environmental degradation and urban security, in a single stroke. The benefits extend beyond cleaner air and quieter streets to include safer communities and a more sustainable economy. 

Current costs of motorcycle use

1. Accidents: With an estimated 70,000 motorcycle-related accidents annually, the associated costs include $300 million for lives lost, $100 million for disabling injuries, and $22 million for minor injuries and damages, totalling $422 million annually.

2. Street crime: The role of motorcycles in street crimes results in financial losses of approximately $40 million, with additional law enforcement costs of $20 million.

3. Environmental costs: Motorcycles contribute air pollution resulting in $300 million annually in additional healthcare costs. Their carbon emissions (7.5 million tonnes per day) add another $375 million in costs. Total Annual Costs: $ 1.57 billion

Costs of transitioning to e-scooters

1. Subsidies: Providing subsidies for 5 million e-scooters at $800 per unit would cost $4 billion.

2. Infrastructure: Developing 10,000 charging stations at $20,000 each would require an additional $200 million.

3. Operational costs: Maintenance of charging stations and incentives for energy companies would cost $50 million annually.

4. Public awareness campaigns: A nationwide campaign over three years would cost around $15 million. Nonetheless, this can be substantially reduced if social media platforms and mobile messaging are used.

5. Long-term savings: Over a decade, a transition to e-scooters would result in a net saving of $10.57 billion, factoring in reduced environmental costs, improved public safety, and decreased healthcare expenditures. This makes the transition not only environmentally beneficial but also economically prudent.

A roadmap for change

To realise the full potential of e-scooters, a comprehensive and phased approach is essential. Policymakers must focus on creating an enabling environment for this transformation.

1. Subsidies and incentives: The government should subsidise the production and purchase of e-scooters, making them affordable to the masses. Tax exemption and low-interest financing options could encourage adoption. A public-private model can support the initial investment by the government.

2. Infrastructure development: Installing a robust network of charging stations is critical. Incentives should be offered to the private investors willing to participate in this infrastructure development.

3. Phased transition: A gradual approach starting with restriction on two-stroke engines and incentivising e-scooter use would allow consumers and markets to adapt.

4. Public awareness campaigns: Educating the public about the benefits of e-scooters is vital. Collaborations with media outlets and civil society organisations can amplify these efforts. Use of social media and artificial intelligence can reduce the costs incurred on public awareness campaigns to a moderate extent.

5. Regulation: Strengthening road safety regulations and law enforcement measures will complement the inherent security advantages of e-scooters.

A vision for the future

The transition from motorcycles to e-scooters is more than a technological upgrade, it is a bold statement of intent. By adopting e-scooters, Pakistan can address two pressing challenges, environmental degradation and urban security, in a single stroke. The benefits extend beyond cleaner air and quieter streets to include safer communities and a more sustainable economy. A well-thought healthy public policy delivers huge financial gains, and promises a secure and healthy future to the people of Pakistan. This vision requires collaboration among government agencies, private sector stakeholders, and civil society. It demands commitment, innovation and a willingness to prioritise long-term gains over short-term challenges. However, the rewards - healthier environments, enhanced public safety and significant saving - are undeniably worth the effort.

As Pakistan’s cities continue to grow, so too must its ambition for a better quality of life. The adoption of electric scooters represents an opportunity to reimagine urban mobility and pave the way for a greater, safer future.

The writer is a professor of public health at the Health Services Academy, Islamabad. He has a 24 year experience in various fields of public health. Prof Khan has published extensively, and has an h-index of 105