A uniform framework for all ride-hailing firms in Karachi has been announced by the Sindh government. The project seeks to increase regulatory control, guarantee passenger safety, and enhance service quality.
At a recent Sindh transit Department meeting, which was presided over by Senior Minister Sharjeel Inam Memon, officials discussed the status of urban transit reforms.
- Standards for EV Taxi Service and Vehicles:
The province administration decided to speed up the introduction of an electric vehicle (EV) taxi service as part of larger initiatives to lower air pollution and modernise public transportation. According to Minister Memon, the new EV taxis will support environmental sustainability and aid in service standardisation.
Minister Memon highlighted that the unified system would enhance service quality, ensure passenger safety, and promote fare transparency across the city.
“We are working towards bringing all taxi services under a single, efficient system that guarantees fare transparency and strict vehicle inspections,” he stated.
The integration of current ride-hailing providers under a unified framework, he continued, will enhance operational efficiency, vehicle inspection standards, and fare transparency.
Read more: Sindh to revolutionize Karachi’s public transport system with 8,000 electric buses
Additionally, officials talked about extending the system throughout Sindh and evaluated the performance of Karachi’s operating Motor Vehicle Inspection Centres.
- Free Women’s Scooters:
The seminar covered strategies for financing the public’s access to EV taxis through installment-based plans. The government intends to provide 1,000 pink scooters to working women and female students at no cost as part of the first phase of its empowerment effort to promote women’s mobility.
- EV buses and double-decker buses:
According to Minister Memon, a fleet of double-decker buses is anticipated to arrive in Karachi by the end of June or the beginning of July. He affirmed that the government plans to replace the traditional buses in Karachi with a fleet that is entirely electric and move them to other areas.
Authorities are building EV charging stations, parking lots, and related infrastructure quickly to facilitate this shift. It is anticipated that the provincial budget for the next fiscal year would include more money for the purchase of new buses and transit improvements.
EVs are cheaper to operate due to lower fuel and maintenance costs. Charging an EV is generally less expensive than refueling a conventional taxi.
EV taxis is a sustainable and cost-effective choice for both operators and passengers, while also supporting broader environmental and public health goals.