Lahore, In a landmark initiative aimed at promoting environmentally friendly transportation, Caretaker Chief Minister Punjab Mohsin Naqvi has launched a program to provide 26,000 electric bikes and electric rickshaws without interest. This pioneering move is a first in Pakistan’s history and represents a significant step towards sustainable transportation.
According to Punjab Portal, Chief Minister Naqvi inaugurated the program in Lahore, extending special invitations to the Consul General of China, Mr. Zhao Shiren, and the Consul General of America, Ms. Kirstin K. Hawkins, to attend the event. During the launch, Naqvi personally thanked both dignitaries for their presence and expressed his enthusiasm for the initiative by participating in an exhibition of the electric vehicles, where he rode in an electric rickshaw and inspected the bikes and rickshaws on display.
Chief Minister Naqvi described the interest-free distribution of these electric vehicles as a crucial step in transitioning towards a cleaner environment. He emphasized the potential impact of such initiatives in improving the quality of life and extending life expectancy by promoting cleaner air. The program is supported by the Bank of Punjab, which facilitates the interest-free distribution.
Provincial Transport Minister Ibrahim Hasan Murad commended Chief Minister Naqvi for his dedication to public service, highlighting the Chief Minister’s personal commitment to the cause, as evidenced by his refusal to receive benefits or a salary and covering the expenses of his office.
The initiative received accolades from both Mr. Zhao Shiren and Ms. Kirstin K. Hawkins, who congratulated Chief Minister Naqvi for introducing such an environmentally friendly program. The distribution of electric bikes and rickshaws is seen as a significant step towards reducing pollution and fostering sustainable transportation methods in Punjab.
Karachi, Caretaker Sindh Chief Minister Justice (retd) Maqbool Baqar announced the deployment of 1,15,500 policemen to ensure security during the upcoming general elections, scheduled for February 8. The force will maintain law and order across 191 electoral seats, including 61 National Assembly and 130 provincial assembly seats.
According to Chief Minister Sindh, the announcement came during a meeting with participants of the PN Staff Course of the Pakistan Navy War College at CM House, attended by provincial ministers and other high-ranking officials. The delegation, led by Commandant Navy War College Rear Admiral Azhar Mehmood, engaged in a detailed discussion on various topics.
Chief Minister Baqar addressed concerns about pollution, highlighting the installation of treatment plants to release treated waste and industrial water into the sea. He also mentioned the Sindh government’s initiative to plant one million mangrove trees, which play a vital role in protecting coastal areas and contributing to the ecosystem.
In response to queries on climate change, Baqar detailed several government schemes aimed at mitigating its impact.
Inspector General (IG) Police Riffat Mukhtar, during his presentation, outlined major challenges faced by law enforcement, including street crime in urban areas, especially Karachi, and lawlessness in the katcha areas of Kashmore, Shikarpur, Ghotki, and Sukkur. He assured that the police are fully prepared for election security and have controlled terrorism through targeted operations.
The IG reported that kidnapping for ransom, highway robberies, tribal feuds, and smuggling are prevalent in the katcha areas. In 2023, 261 kidnapping cases were reported, with all but 16 victims freed from abductors.
Chief Secretary Dr. Fakhre Alam emphasized the need for criminal justice system reform, particularly concerning urban street crime. He advocated for the Karachi Safe City Project and enhancing the technical capacity of the police.
Chairman of Planning and Development Shakil Mangejo briefed on Sindh’s development portfolio, highlighting its vast resources, including coal reserves, electricity production, gas, oil, and agricultural output. He informed that Sindh is servicing debts of Rs68.179 billion this fiscal year and outlined priorities such as improving education and health infrastructure, water conservation, sewage disposal, and enhancing road connectivity and transportation.
The meeting concluded with the Chief Minister and other officials responding to various questions from the participants. Rear Admiral Azhar Mahmood thanked the Chief Minister for his insights and interactions.