Lahore has witnessed a sharp increase in electric motorcycle (e-bike) registrations, with 755 new entries last month, bringing the total to 1,248 under the Chief Minister’s Green Credit Programme. This initiative aligns with the Punjab government’s goal to transition 30% of the transport sector to electric vehicles by 2030, a move that experts say is vital for reducing pollution and creating quieter, cleaner cities.
Sajid Bashir, a spokesperson for the Environment Department, highlighted that e-bikes are already contributing to reduced noise, smoke, and traffic congestion in the city. The program provides buyers with a subsidy of Rs100,000 in two instalments—Rs50,000 at the time of purchase and the remaining Rs50,000 after the buyer completes 6,000 kilometers within six months, verified through the Green Credit App.
Experts estimate that widespread adoption of e-bikes could significantly lower carbon dioxide emissions, contributing to environmental sustainability.
Despite these advancements, Punjab continues to face serious air pollution challenges. Recently, a joint operation by the Environment Department and Lahore Transport Authority led to the interception of a trailer carrying 41 tonnes of used tyres illegally transported from Karachi. These tyres were headed for pyro plants, where burning them to fuel factories and steel mills releases harmful emissions, worsening smog and posing a risk to public health.
Ali Ejaz, Deputy Director of Environment, warned that such practices cause long-term environmental harm and called for stricter enforcement to address the issue.
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