Punjab Bans Petrol And Diesel Vehicle Purchases For Government Departments

Punjab Bans Petrol And Diesel Vehicle Purchases For Government Departments: The Punjab government has taken a major policy decision to ban the purchase of new petrol and diesel vehicles for government departments, marking a significant shift toward cleaner and environment-friendly transport. This move reflects the province’s growing focus on reducing carbon emissions, lowering fuel dependency, and promoting sustainable energy solutions across public sector operations.

Under this new policy, government departments will now be allowed to purchase only electric or hybrid vehicles, while certain exemptions have been provided for field-duty vehicles. In addition, the government has linked the approval of new petrol pumps to the mandatory installation of electric vehicle charging units, ensuring future readiness for electric mobility. This article explains the policy in detail, its objectives, implementation strategy, impact on departments and citizens, and what it means for Punjab’s transport and energy future.

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Background of the New Government Vehicle Policy

The Punjab government has been working on multiple initiatives to address rising environmental concerns, fuel costs, and urban pollution. Transport emissions have remained one of the major contributors to air pollution in large cities such as Lahore, Faisalabad, and Rawalpindi. The new vehicle policy aims to directly address this issue by reforming how government departments procure and use vehicles.

This decision was taken at a high-level administrative review, where environmental protection and energy efficiency were identified as long-term priorities. The Chief Secretary Punjab emphasized that the public sector must lead by example when it comes to adopting green solutions. By restricting petrol and diesel vehicles, the government intends to set a clear direction for cleaner mobility across the province.

Key Decision: Ban on Petrol and Diesel Vehicle Purchases

The central element of the new policy is the complete ban on purchasing new petrol and diesel vehicles for government departments. This applies to routine departmental vehicles used for administrative and official purposes.

• Government departments are no longer allowed to buy new petrol or diesel vehicles
• Only electric vehicles and hybrid vehicles are permitted for new purchases
• The ban applies to administrative and official-use vehicles
• Existing petrol and diesel vehicles can continue operating until replacement

This decision ensures a gradual transition rather than a sudden disruption. The government has clarified that departments will shift to cleaner options as part of regular vehicle replacement cycles.

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Exemptions for Field Duty Vehicles

While the policy is strict, the Punjab government has introduced practical exemptions to ensure that essential services are not disrupted. Vehicles used for field duties, emergency operations, and remote area work have been excluded from the immediate ban.

These exemptions recognize the current limitations of electric infrastructure in rural and remote regions. Departments such as health, rescue, law enforcement, and inspection services often require long-distance travel and rapid response, which may not yet be fully supported by electric vehicles.

• Field-duty vehicles are exempt from the purchase ban
• Emergency and operational vehicles can still be petrol or diesel-based
• Exemptions will be reviewed as EV infrastructure expands
• Departments must justify field-use requirements

This balanced approach allows the policy to remain realistic while still pushing toward long-term environmental goals.

Shift Toward Electric and Hybrid Vehicles

The policy strongly encourages the adoption of electric and hybrid vehicles for government use. Electric vehicles produce zero tailpipe emissions, while hybrid vehicles significantly reduce fuel consumption compared to traditional engines.

The Punjab government believes that this transition will reduce fuel expenses, maintenance costs, and overall environmental impact over time. Hybrid vehicles are seen as a transitional solution, especially for departments not yet ready for full electrification.

• Electric vehicles for short-distance and urban use
• Hybrid vehicles for mixed and longer-distance travel
• Reduced fuel costs for government departments
• Lower maintenance requirements compared to conventional engines

This shift also supports Pakistan’s broader commitment to climate action and clean energy adoption.

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Mandatory EV Charging Units at New Petrol Pumps

One of the most impactful elements of the policy is the decision to link petrol pump approvals with electric vehicle charging infrastructure. From now on, no new petrol pump will be allowed to operate without installing an EV charging unit. This requirement ensures that electric vehicle infrastructure grows alongside traditional fuel stations. It also removes one of the biggest barriers to EV adoption, which is charging accessibility.

• Installation of EV charging units is mandatory for new petrol pumps
• NOCs will only be issued after charging units are installed
• Existing pumps may be encouraged to add EV chargers later
• Charging availability will improve consumer confidence in EVs

This decision lays the foundation for a province-wide EV charging network.

Approval of New Petrol Pumps Through e-Biz Portal

Despite the push for electric mobility, the Punjab government continues to regulate petrol pump approvals through a digital system. Authorities have issued NOCs for 170 new petrol pumps across 31 cities using the e-Biz Portal. This digital approval process ensures transparency and efficiency while enforcing new environmental requirements.

• 170 new petrol pumps approved across Punjab
• Approvals processed through the e-Biz Portal
• EV charging units mandatory at all new pumps
• Environmental compliance integrated into approvals

This shows how digital governance and environmental policy are being combined for better results.

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City-Wise Distribution of Approved Petrol Pumps

The approved petrol pumps are distributed across major and secondary cities to meet existing fuel demand while preparing for future electric needs.

City-wise Approved Petrol Pumps in Punjab

This distribution highlights balanced regional development while ensuring new infrastructure aligns with green energy goals.

Environmental and Economic Benefits of the Policy

The new policy is expected to deliver long-term environmental and economic benefits for Punjab. Reduced fuel consumption will directly lower government expenditure, while lower emissions will improve public health. Electric and hybrid vehicles also have fewer moving parts, leading to reduced maintenance costs over time. These savings can be redirected toward public services and development projects.

• Reduced air pollution in urban centers
• Lower fuel import and consumption costs
• Improved public health outcomes
• Long-term savings on vehicle maintenance

The government believes these benefits will outweigh initial transition costs.

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Impact on Government Departments

Government departments will need to adjust their procurement planning and operational strategies. Departments are expected to assess their transport needs and select suitable electric or hybrid options accordingly. Training may also be required for drivers and maintenance staff to handle new vehicle technologies. Over time, departments will become more efficient and environmentally responsible.

• Revised vehicle procurement procedures
• Training for EV operation and maintenance
• Gradual replacement of existing fleets
• Improved accountability in vehicle usage

This transformation is expected to modernize public sector transport management.

Alignment With Upcoming Electric Vehicle Policy

The Chief Secretary Punjab has confirmed that a comprehensive electric vehicle policy will be introduced soon. The ban on petrol and diesel vehicle purchases is part of a broader roadmap toward sustainable transport. The upcoming policy is expected to include incentives, charging infrastructure expansion, and public-private partnerships to accelerate EV adoption across Punjab.

• Integration with provincial EV policy
• Incentives for clean transport solutions
• Expansion of charging infrastructure
• Support for local EV industry

This alignment ensures long-term consistency in transport and energy planning.

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Challenges and Future Considerations

While the policy is ambitious, it also presents challenges. Limited charging infrastructure, higher upfront costs, and technological adaptation may slow adoption in some areas. However, the government plans to address these challenges through phased implementation, infrastructure investment, and policy support.

• Gradual rollout to manage transition
• Investment in charging networks
• Regular policy reviews and updates
• Stakeholder engagement and feedback

These measures aim to ensure smooth and sustainable implementation.

Conclusion

The Punjab government’s decision to ban petrol and diesel vehicle purchases for government departments marks a historic shift toward cleaner and more sustainable transport. By promoting electric and hybrid vehicles and linking petrol pump approvals to EV charging infrastructure, the province is laying the groundwork for a greener future.

This policy not only supports environmental protection but also improves efficiency, reduces long-term costs, and aligns Punjab with global trends in clean mobility. As infrastructure and technology continue to evolve, this initiative is expected to deliver lasting benefits for both the government and the public.

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FAQs

Why has Punjab banned petrol and diesel vehicle purchases for government departments?

The ban aims to reduce pollution, promote green energy, and lower fuel and maintenance costs in the long term.

Are all government vehicles affected by this ban?

No, vehicles used for field duties and emergency operations are currently exempt from the restriction.

What vehicles can government departments purchase now?

Departments are allowed to purchase electric vehicles and hybrid vehicles only.

Is EV charging mandatory at new petrol pumps?

Yes, all newly approved petrol pumps must install electric vehicle charging units.

Will Punjab introduce more EV-related policies?

Yes, the provincial government has confirmed that a comprehensive electric vehicle policy will be introduced soon

(Source: Propakistani.pk)