The Givernment of Punjab bans petrol cars and also diesel vehicles for its departments, mandating only electric or hybrid options to combat smog and promote sustainable transport in the province.
Punjab authorities announced a complete ban on procuring petrol and diesel vehicles across government departments. Only electric or hybrid vehicles will now be purchased, with exemptions for field duty vehicles. Chief Secretary Zahid Akhtar Zaman revealed the decision, linking it to upcoming Punjab EV policy rollout and green energy priorities.
This shift addresses severe air quality issues in Punjab, where vehicle emissions contribute heavily to smog affecting Lahore and surrounding areas. In South Asia’s densely populated regions, such policies help curb transboundary pollution and reduce fossil fuel dependence, setting a model for neighbouring provinces and countries.
Punjab Govt Vehicle Ban Enforced
The Punjab govt vehicle ban applies to all provincial departments except those requiring vehicles for field operations. Senior Punjab Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb stated: “The government has decided to replace petrol vehicles in the official fleet with hybrid and electric vehicles.” This forms part of anti-smog measures coordinated by the Planning and Development Department.
The ban builds on earlier directives, including the November 2025 decision to phase out petrol-run motorcycle rickshaws and prioritise electric alternatives. Government departments will transition to Punjab electric hybrid cars for official use, supporting emission reductions.
To support infrastructure, new petrol pumps require EV charging stations for NOC approval. Chief Secretary Zahid Akhtar Zaman confirmed: “No new petrol pump will be allowed to operate without EV charging facilities.” This ensures readiness for growing electric vehicles Pakistan adoption.
NOCs cover 170 petrol pumps in 31 cities: 29 in Faisalabad, 14 in Lahore, 10 in Bahawalpur, 9 each in Khanewal and Bahawalnagar, 8 each in Rawalpindi and Jhang, and 7 each in Toba Tek Singh, Mianwali, Kasur, and Chiniot. All must install chargers.
Punjab EV Policy on the Horizon
The Punjab EV policy is nearing announcement. It will detail incentives, infrastructure expansion, and adoption targets aligned with federal goals. Discussions continue, with formal notification expected from the Services and General Administration Department after Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif’s approval.
The policy emphasises green transport amid Punjab’s smog challenges. It includes 1,000 e-buses already deployed province-wide, with plans to procure 10,000 more this year. Additional measures feature 5,000 subsidised super seeders to reduce crop residue burning, 41 air quality monitoring stations (targeting 100 by June), drone surveillance, thermal cameras, a Smog War Room, and the Punjab Climate Watch platform.
These efforts integrate with the Punjab electric hybrid cars mandate, promoting cleaner alternatives.
Electric Vehicles Pakistan Momentum
Electric vehicles Pakistan gain traction through federal and provincial actions. The National Electric Vehicle Policy targets 30% new sales as new energy vehicles by 2030, covering EVs and hybrids. Punjab’s ban and charging requirements accelerate this locally.
Challenges persist, including charging networks and initial costs, but government procurement drives demand. Reduced oil imports could ease economic pressures, while lower emissions improve public health in smog-prone areas.
Industry welcomes the push. The policy supports private sector growth in EV assembly and infrastructure.
Background
Punjab faces persistent smog from transport, industry, and agriculture. Vehicle emissions play a key role. Earlier initiatives revived post-COVID, with e-bus fleets expanding. The federal NEV policy 2025-30 emphasises synergies between governments for cohesive adoption.
Provincial actions like mandatory chargers at petrol pumps build necessary support. The Punjab electric hybrid cars focus complements national targets, potentially influencing broader South Asian transitions.
What’s Next after Punjab Bans Petrol Cars
Implementation awaits formal approval and S&GAD notification. The Punjab EV policy release will clarify timelines, incentives, and monitoring. Departments prepare procurement shifts to Punjab electric hybrid cars. Infrastructure growth, including chargers, will enable wider electric vehicles Pakistan use.
Success depends on enforcement, public awareness, and private investment. This could mark a turning point in Punjab’s fight against pollution.
Published in SouthAsianDesk, January 15th, 2026
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