In a bid to revolutionize transportation and promote sustainability, Punjab Transport Minister Bilal Akbar Khan has announced a significant increase in the electric bike quota across the region. This announcement follows a directive from Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz, who aims to double the number of e-bikes available under the government scheme.
The minister revealed that the initial phase of this expansion will prioritize providing electric bikes to students from various universities, aiming to facilitate easier and environmentally friendly commuting options for the youth.
During the inaugural meeting of the steering committee established for e-bikes, Minister Khan emphasized the importance of streamlining the application process and promptly addressing any concerns raised by prospective users. This move is crucial in ensuring the effective implementation and success of the program.
Secretary Transport Dr. Javed Ahmed Qazi provided insights into the formation of a steering committee by CM Maryam, tasked with addressing issues related to the supply of both electric (E) and pedal (P) bikes.
Previously, the Chief Minister had approved the provision of 20,000 e-bikes to citizens, marking a significant step towards promoting eco-friendly transportation alternatives. However, recognizing the growing demand and potential benefits of electric bikes, plans are underway to further increase this number.
During the steering committee meeting, various proposals were discussed, with a particular emphasis on inclusivity. Participants highlighted the importance of incorporating special persons and other marginalized sections of society into the program, ensuring equitable access to transportation solutions.
To oversee the effective implementation of these proposals, Minister Khan suggested the formation of a dedicated working group. Additionally, he directed officials to provide clear and transparent guidelines on the Punjab Information Technology Board (PITB) portal, aiming to prevent any ambiguity in the application process.
Looking ahead, Minister Bilal Akbar Khan instructed officials to draft a comprehensive proposal for providing 15,000 to 25,000 electric bikes to students, seeking approval from the Chief Minister. Furthermore, he stressed the importance of widespread publicity for the scheme, instructing authorities to advertise in newspapers and complete all necessary preparations by June.
With this ambitious plan in motion, Punjab aims to lead the way in promoting sustainable transportation solutions while ensuring accessibility and inclusivity for all segments of society.
