Pakistan
Punjab launches 50,000 electric bike-sharing project in Lahore under green mobility plan
LAHORE: The Punjab government has signed a green mobility agreement with the private sector to introduce a large-scale electric bike-sharing programme in Lahore, aimed at reducing air pollution and modernising urban transport infrastructure.
Under the initiative, which aligns with the chief minister’s vision for eco-friendly public transport, 50,000 electric bikes will be deployed across the city through a 100% privately funded Build-Operate-Own (BOO) model. The agreement was signed between Lahore Horticulture Agency (PHA) Managing Director Mansoor Ahmed and a private sector representative, in the presence of senior provincial officials including the chief secretary and Lahore deputy commissioner.
Officials said the project would require an investment of Rs8.1 billion, entirely borne by the private sector, ensuring no financial burden on the provincial exchequer. The rollout will be carried out in phases, beginning with 10,000 electric bikes at key locations across Lahore before expanding to the full fleet within 18 months.
The system will include around 1,500 smart docking stations installed in public parks, green belts and high-traffic areas. A battery-swapping mechanism will be used to reduce downtime and ensure continuous availability of bikes.
Authorities said the project also includes a carbon credit and revenue-sharing arrangement. Under the agreement, the Lahore Horticulture Agency will receive a 50% share in carbon credits, while a 5% revenue share will be distributed among the Lahore Horticulture Agency, Lahore Parking Company and Punjab Transport Department.
Officials estimate that the initiative could reduce around 5,000 tons of carbon dioxide emissions annually, contributing to improved air quality and helping address Lahore’s recurring smog problem.
Users will access the service through a dedicated mobile application with GPS tracking and real-time monitoring. CNIC-based identity verification will be mandatory before renting a bike.
A regulated fare structure has also been introduced, setting the cost at Rs25 for the first kilometre and Rs15 for each additional kilometre.
The provincial government said the pilot phase will be evaluated before expanding the model to other major cities across Punjab.
