Gwadar Pro
Lahore: Punjab this week proposed policy measures to accelerate electric vehicle adoption, expand charging infrastructure and attract private investment, with officials saying Chinese technology could support the province’s shift towards cleaner transport.
Officials said the Punjab Public Private Partnership Authority had submitted recommendations for developing an EV charging network and encouraging local and foreign investors to enter the sector.
The proposals come as Pakistan seeks to modernise transport, reduce dependence on imported fuels and promote low-emission mobility. China, a major global producer of electric vehicles and charging technologies, is seen by officials as a potential partner in Punjab’s EV transition.
According to officials, the recommendations call for opening the EV charging sector to greater private participation through a clearer regulatory and financial framework for companies setting up charging stations across Punjab.
Special incentives have also been proposed for investors willing to build charging infrastructure in rural and underserved areas, where commercial returns may be lower but connectivity is needed to support wider EV adoption.
The proposals call for the use of public and private land to develop an integrated charging network across the province. Officials said they also include possible financial support for companies investing in charging stations to reduce early-stage risks.
The authority has proposed a dedicated financing mechanism for electric mobility projects, including green finance instruments and support from international financial institutions focused on climate resilience, clean energy and sustainable transport.
Officials said such financing could complement investment from Chinese companies with expertise in battery manufacturing, charging systems and electric mobility technologies.
Under the proposed framework, EV charging stations, battery-swapping facilities and related infrastructure could be developed through public-private partnership models combining government support with private-sector investment.
The policy also calls for a dedicated institutional mechanism to promote investment in Punjab’s EV sector, improve coordination among government departments and speed up decisions on strategic EV projects.
Officials said the proposals would support Punjab’s environmental goals by helping reduce transport-related emissions, improve urban air quality and promote cleaner mobility.
