The Punjab government has announced the second phase of the CM Punjab E-Bike Scheme, under which more than 125,000 electric bikes will be distributed among talented male and female students.
Under the new arrangements, students will not have to make any down payment, while the provincial government will cover the interest and insurance costs associated with the scheme. The monthly instalment has been set at approximately Rs3,000 in principal.
Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has directed the relevant authorities to launch the e-bike portal during the current week and ensure that eligible students receive their bikes within six weeks. The electric bikes will be equipped with Lithium Iron Phosphate (LFP) batteries. Students will also receive helmets and safety rods free of charge, along with two days of free e-bike riding training. The latest phase also includes an in-principle decision to gradually expand the scheme to government employees, government departments and public delivery riders.
E-Bike Scheme applications open
Applications for the scheme opened on Friday, September 4. Under the initiative, eligible students will be provided with electric bikes on affordable, interest-free instalment plans.
Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz had recently removed the down-payment requirement for the e-bikes. She also rejected proposals to impose additional charges on students beyond their monthly instalments. Under the scheme, students will pay monthly instalments of Rs3,000, with no interest. The provincial government will cover the interest and insurance costs associated with the electric bikes.
The scheme is initially being launched for students, with more than 125,000 e-bikes planned for distribution. The Punjab government has also approved plans to gradually expand the programme to include government employees, the general public and delivery workers.
AIOU, VU students ineligible for E-Bike Scheme
Students of Allama Iqbal Open University (AIOU) and Virtual University (VU) are not eligible for the Punjab government’s Maryam Nawaz Electric Bike Scheme (CM Punjab E-Bike Scheme) and cannot apply.
According to the scheme’s eligibility criteria, only students enrolled in regular, on-campus programmes at HEC-recognised institutions are eligible. Students enrolled in evening programmes, weekend classes, or online degree programmes are also excluded from the scheme.
Lahore Traffic Police sets up driving schools for E-Bike students
On the other hand, the Lahore Traffic Police has established five driving schools for students participating in the CM Punjab E-Bike Scheme. The centres will provide students with driving training and facilitate the issuance of driving licences, with the aim of promoting safer and more responsible riding. Under the scheme, around 100,000 electric bikes are planned to be provided to students across Punjab.