Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Monday emphasized the urgent need to promote environment-friendly electric vehicles (EVs) across Pakistan, citing rising global petroleum prices and regional uncertainties as key challenges impacting the economy.
Speaking at a ceremony held to induct eco-smart electric vehicles into the Islamabad Capital Traffic Police, the prime minister said that adopting EVs would help conserve the country’s valuable foreign exchange reserves by reducing reliance on imported fuel.
He noted that the Interior Ministry had initially provided 15 electric vehicles that operate entirely on battery power, eliminating the need for petrol or diesel. Another batch of vehicles is expected to be added in the near future. “Such initiatives should be replicated by all provinces and law enforcement agencies to promote energy efficiency and environmental sustainability,” he said.
The newly inducted vehicles will be deployed on major roads of the federal capital to improve traffic management and ensure smooth vehicular flow. Officials informed the prime minister that each vehicle can travel between 350 to 400 kilometers on a full charge. Fast charging takes approximately 60 to 90 minutes, while standard charging may require 6 to 8 hours.
The prime minister described the initiative as a “significant step” that would not only reduce fuel consumption but also contribute positively to the country’s economic stability. He also commended Interior Minister Syed Mohsin Naqvi and his team for spearheading the project.
In a separate meeting, the prime minister reviewed the performance of Pakistan Railways with Federal Minister Hanif Abbasi. He directed authorities to ensure the timely completion of ongoing railway projects and to utilize all available resources to provide safe, affordable, and efficient travel facilities to the public.
Highlighting the current economic conditions, Shehbaz Sharif reiterated that the government was avoiding placing additional financial burdens on citizens while focusing on reforms to improve revenue generation in the railway sector.
During the briefing, the railways minister informed that train fares had not been increased despite the ongoing regional situation and rising operational costs, keeping public convenience in mind.
The prime minister stressed the importance of accelerating reforms to modernize Pakistan Railways and transform it into a reliable and sustainable transportation system, aligning with broader efforts to strengthen the country’s infrastructure and economy.