Sharjeel orders launching first batch of EV taxis by February

To accelerate the provincial government’s efforts to launch an electric vehicle taxi service within 24 hours, another meeting of the transport department was convened at the Sindh Secretariat on Wednesday, with Transport Minister Sharjeel Memon in chair.

Attended by Energy and Planning & Development Minister Nasir Shah among others, the meeting resolved to expedite the establishment of charging stations for the EV taxis. The meeting was briefed on the operational model, benefits and affordability of the electric taxis. Passengers will be able to travel up to 200km in EV vehicles for Rs1,800, thus the service will be economical, and also friendly to the environment.

Memon ordered launching the first batch of EV taxis by February. He and Shah instructed the relevant departments to ensure the timely completion of the necessary infrastructure, including EV charging stations.

They stressed that the EV taxi service would revolutionise the province’s transportation system by offering an environmentally friendly and affordable alternative, reaffirming their commitment to launching the service without delay.

Memon said that this initiative aligns with their vision for a modern and sustainable transport system. He said that it would create employment opportunities for the youth, protect the environment and encourage investment.

Shah said their goal is to establish a comprehensive EV ecosystem in the province, encompassing everything from charging infrastructure to modern financing models. He said that with the support of banks, EV taxis would be made available to unemployed youth on easy instalment plans.

He added that the vision of the Pakistan Peoples Party is to empower individuals and make them self-reliant, enabling them to contribute to a brighter future. The meeting also reviewed various banking models to ensure the availability, accessibility and financial viability of EV taxis on easy instalment plans for unemployed youth.