ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has directed authorities to accelerate measures for the promotion of electric vehicles (EVs) in the country.
A review meeting chaired by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif was held to assess ongoing initiatives aimed at promoting electric vehicles, where detailed progress on EV-related measures was discussed.
Addressing the meeting, the Prime Minister instructed that efforts to promote EVs be further expedited.
He said that in view of the current regional situation and future needs, the promotion of EVs will not only help reduce fuel import costs but also contribute significantly to environmental protection and energy security.
He also directed ensuring transparency in the subsidy scheme for electric motorcycles provided to low-income individuals under the National EV Policy and called for faster implementation of the program.
During the briefing, it was informed that multiple initiatives are underway to promote EVs across the country.
A total of 72 manufacturing certificates have been issued for electric motorcycles and rickshaws, while 4 certificates have been granted for electric vehicles.
It was further shared that 123 applications have been received for the establishment of EV charging stations. A plan is also in place to shift 30 percent of vehicles in the country to electric power over the next five years, which is expected to save up to $4.5 billion in fuel costs.
The meeting was also informed that work is ongoing on a scheme to provide electric bikes to government employees up to Grade 16 on easy installments.
Federal ministers including Dr. Musadik Malik, Ahsan Iqbal, Muhammad Aurangzeb, Attaullah Tarar, Awais Khan Leghari, Ahsan Iqbal, Minister of State Bilal Azhar Kayani, Special Assistant Haroon Akhtar, Chairman Prime Minister Youth Program Rana Mashhood Ahmad Khan, State Bank Governor Jameel Ahmad, and other senior officials attended the meeting.
