In a landmark move aimed at promoting cleaner transportation and combating air pollution, the Punjab government has made it mandatory for all newly established petrol pumps in the province to install electric vehicle (EV) charging stations.
The decision indicates growing commitment of Punjab to embracing green technology and addressing the alarming levels of air pollution choking its major cities.
A Step Toward a Cleaner Future
Officials keep on saying that this decision is assumed to be the most vital component of broader Clean Air and Green Mobility Strategy, and it was designed to reduce the province’s dependence on fossil fuels and shift toward sustainable alternatives.
The announcement comes as Lahore and several other cities in Punjab continue to feature on global lists of the most polluted urban centers, especially during the winter smog season.
By requiring EV chargers at all new fuel stations, the government aims to remove one of the biggest obstacles faced by potential EV buyers — the lack of reliable charging infrastructure.
The initiative is expected to make owning and driving an electric vehicle more convenient and accessible, thereby accelerating adoption across the province.
Read more: All fuel stations in Islamabad will have electric vehicle charging points by 2030
Addressing Air Quality and Rising Fuel Costs
The latest EV policy also addresses the dual challenge of poor air quality and rising fuel prices. Officials are thinking that replacing petrol and diesel vehicles with EVs could drastically minimize carbon emissions and noise pollution in those cities where a huge population lives.
After the huge rise in the cost of fuel, consumers are becoming increasingly aware of the long-term savings offered by electric vehicles, which require less maintenance and are cheaper to run. This shift could also help reduce the province’s dependence on imported oil, strengthening energy security.
Implementation and Future Vision
The government will soon release detailed implementation guidelines, defining technical standards for EV chargers, power capacity, and public accessibility. Authorities have also indicated that incentives for private investors and partnerships with energy companies are being considered to expand the EV charging network.
Officials hope these measures will create an ecosystem that supports sustainable mobility, foster innovation in the energy sector and inspire other provinces to follow Punjab’s lead in building a greener, cleaner, and more future-ready transportation system.