LAHORE: Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif has approved the provision of more than 125,000 electric bikes to students across the province under the CM Electric Bike Scheme, with the government offering interest-free financing and additional safety facilities.
The chief minister directed authorities not to collect any down payment from participating students and rejected proposals to impose charges beyond the monthly instalment.
Moreover, the Punjab government will bear the interest and insurance costs associated with the electric bikes, reducing the financial burden on students.
Students to Pay Around Rs3,000 in Monthly Instalments
Officials agreed to a proposal setting the monthly instalment at around Rs3,000. Maryam Nawaz also ordered authorities to open the e-bike application portal this week and ensure eligible students receive their motorcycles within six weeks.
Furthermore, the government will provide helmets and safety rods free of charge to participating students.
The electric bikes will use lithium iron phosphate batteries, while interested students will also receive two days of free driving training to improve road safety and responsible vehicle use.
Scheme to Expand Beyond Students to Workers and Departments
Meanwhile, the Punjab government plans to broaden the programme beyond students by extending electric mobility facilities to government employees, public departments and delivery workers.
The expansion indicates that authorities intend to use the scheme to encourage wider adoption of electric transportation across the province.
Additionally, the initiative aims to make personal transportation more affordable for students while limiting upfront costs through monthly payments.
The chief minister’s decision to eliminate the down payment, interest and insurance expenses could significantly reduce the initial financial requirements for eligible applicants.
Authorities will now move towards opening the online portal and implementing the distribution process, with the government targeting delivery of approved electric bikes within the announced six-week timeframe.
