The Punjab Government has officially launched the Green E-Taxi Scheme 2025, offering 1,100 electric taxis in its first phase on interest-free instalments. This initiative is intended to reduce air pollution, modernize public transport, and create jobs for youth and unemployed people across the province.Under the scheme, interested applicants will make a 30% down payment (estimated around Rs 18-20 lakh), while the remaining cost (70%) will be financed through bank loans. Monthly instalments are expected to be approximately Rs 60,000. The government will cover interest costs and also subsidize some parts like vehicle registration.Eligibility requirements include being a resident of Punjab, aged between 21 and 55 (some sources say 18+), holding a valid driving license, and having a clean banking and driving record. Women and low-income applicants are especially encouraged to apply. Fleet operators (owning multiple vehicles) may also be eligible.The application process will be handled online via the Punjab Information Technology Board (PITB) portal. Registration is expected to begin in September 2025, with a deadline in October 2025. After that, in November, there will be balloting and verification to select beneficiaries fairly. Distribution of the taxis is planned to start December 2025 onwards.Vehicles under the scheme will come with modern features like GPS systems, smart fare meters, and official E-Taxi branding to ensure safety, transparency, and service quality.This program is also part of Punjab’s Green Transport Policy, aiming to shift toward electric mobility in urban centers like Lahore, Faisalabad, Rawalpindi, and Multan. By replacing older fuel-burning taxis, the government hopes to reduce emissions, fuel costs, and traffic pollution, while offering income opportunities to drivers.Officials say no interest will be charged on the financed portion of the vehicle cost; instead, the government will handle the interest due to banks. Registration and token taxes for the vehicles will also be borne by the government in many cases, easing the financial burden on selected applicants.In summary, the Green E-Taxi Scheme is seen as a major step toward sustainable transport, job creation, and environmental improvement in Punjab. With clear instalment structure, fair balloting, and government support, the scheme offers hope to many looking for clean mobility and income. Officials urge interested drivers to prepare necessary documents and monitor official announcements for application dates.
