The Punjab government has approved a proposal to include the provision of 50,000 electric bikes and 5,000 e-taxis on an interest-free basis in the upcoming provincial budget, as part of efforts to support students and unemployed youth.

The proposal, which has been cleared for inclusion in the next financial year’s budget, is aimed at providing affordable and environment-friendly transport while generating employment opportunities for young people.

Punjab Transport Minister Bilal Akbar Khan said eligible beneficiaries under the e-taxi scheme would be offered easy installment plans and interest-free financing facilities. He added that the government was also considering incentives, including support for vehicle registration.

“The government is taking practical steps to empower young people and bring them into economic activity,” Bilal said. He added that the initiative would help create better employment opportunities for thousands of youths while promoting electric transport and reducing pollution.

The move comes as the provincial government reviews its public transport policies ahead of the new budget.

Separately, the government is considering linking the continuation of its free public transport facility to petroleum prices.

A briefing presented to the Punjab chief minister indicated that the facility could be withdrawn if petrol prices drop to Rs300 per litre.

The final decision on the matter is expected in coming weeks. Authorities are also considering a proposal not to further extend the free travel programme in the province.

According to figures shared in the briefing, more than 70 million passengers have benefited from the facility over the past two months.