Naqvi unveils e-bike, rickshaw distribution plan

LAHORE:Chief Minister Mohsin Naqvi unveiled a groundbreaking initiative, announcing the distribution of 26,000 electric motorbikes and rickshaws to the general public on interest-free basis.

The announcement took place at a special function organised by the Punjab Transport Department at a local hotel, where the chief minister also inaugurated the Motorcycle Rickshaw Registration Programme across Punjab.

The chief minister presented the first licence for electric rickshaw manufacturing to the CEO of Sazgar Company, marking the formal commencement of the electric rickshaw industry in Punjab. At the event, he disclosed plans to provide 10,000 electric bikes to students, facilitated by the Bank of Punjab, while another 10,000 electric rickshaws would be supported by Punjab Bank. Notably, 2,000 electric three-wheeler bikes will be granted to special individuals free of interest.

Emphasising environmental concerns, Mohsin Naqvi declared a ban on government-level purchases of petrol-powered motorcycles across Punjab, restricting future acquisitions to electric bikes. He also announced the initiation of the Qingqi Rickshaw Body Standers Programme. Addressing pollution issues in City, the CM stressed the need for collective action.

Opens canal desilting drive

The chief minister inaugurated the desilting campaign from the Lahore canal near Muslim Town Mor for removing silt from 17,000km long canals across the province.

The CM removed silt through the crane, stating that the first phase would continue till January 31, while embankments of 5,000km long canals would be repaired in the second phase, spanning over two months. While talking to the media men, he added that the silt would be removed from 17,000km long canals in the first phase as services of LIMS were acquired for round-the-clock monitoring. For this purpose, staff, DCs and commissioners concerned were trained through LIMS as this drive would be monitored through satellite images and NESPAK would also monitor it as a third party, he added. The CM mentioned that complaints were received about the mixing of drainage water in the Lahore canal at some points, adding that a committee comprising Wasa MD and DC would probe the matter, as it could not be allowed.

Announces eight more driving test centres

The chief minister visited police Khidmat Markaz at Liberty where a considerable number of applicants, eager to undergo car driving tests outside the service centre, were observed.

Several visitors expressed concerns regarding delays in their driving tests. Responding promptly, the CM announced establishing eight new driving test centres at Gaddafi Stadium starting today, directing the IG police to take immediate action in this regard.

CM visits PIC

The chief minister expressed his concern over the cleanliness issues in the tiles of the newly-inaugurated emergency, during his late-night visit to the Punjab Institute of Cardiology (PIC), and directed the commissioner to ensure consistent maintenance for a tidy environment.

While interacting with patients, the CM inquired about their well-being and the facilities available for treatment. Patients expressed satisfaction with the free medications and test facilities. Additionally, the CM directed to complete the upgradation of the ground floor before Jan 31.