In a significant move towards sustainable urban mobility, the Sindh government has announced plans to launch Pakistan’s inaugural fleet of electric vehicle (EV) taxis. This initiative marks a pivotal step in addressing Karachi’s escalating air pollution crisis, largely attributed to the proliferation of gasoline-powered vehicles amidst inadequate mass-transit infrastructure.
The announcement, made by Sindh Minister for Information, Excise, Narcotics, and Transport, Sharjeel Inam Memon, underscores the government’s commitment to modernizing public transportation. “Pakistan’s first EV taxis and Pink EV taxis will be started soon by Transport Department Government Of Sindh,” Memon shared.
The introduction of EV taxis not only promises to mitigate air pollution but also offers a potentially economical alternative for commuters grappling with soaring fuel prices. This move aligns with global efforts towards sustainable transportation, as countries worldwide pivot away from fossil fuels in favor of environmentally friendly alternatives.
While a specific timeline for the launch of EV taxis in Sindh has yet to be disclosed, this initiative follows the recent introduction of hybrid and electric buses in Karachi. These additions to the Peoples Bus Service fleet exemplify ongoing efforts to enhance public transport options and reduce the city’s carbon footprint.
As Karachi gears up to embrace EV technology in its taxi fleet, stakeholders anticipate a transformative impact on urban mobility and environmental sustainability in Pakistan’s largest metropolis.