Punjab Bans Petrol and Diesel Vehicle Purchases for Government Departments
Punjab bans petrol and diesel vehicle purchases for government departments as part of a major shift toward cleaner and more sustainable transport. The provincial government has decided that departments can no longer purchase new petrol or diesel vehicles for official and administrative use. This step reflects growing concern over rising pollution levels, increasing fuel costs, and long-term environmental damage caused by transport emissions.
The decision positions the public sector as a leader in adopting green solutions. Punjab aims to reduce carbon emissions and set an example for private consumers and businesses across the province by changing how it procures government fleets.
Key objectives of the decision include:
- Reducing air pollution in major cities
- Lowering fuel dependency and costs
- Promoting clean energy transport solutions
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Background and Purpose of the Policy
Transport emissions have been a major contributor to smog and poor air quality in cities like Lahore and Faisalabad. The government reviewed these challenges and concluded that reforming public-sector vehicle usage was necessary for long-term environmental improvement. This policy emerged from high-level administrative discussions focused on sustainability.
Officials emphasized that gradual reform is more effective than sudden disruption. Existing petrol and diesel vehicles will continue to operate until replacement, ensuring continuity of services while transitioning to cleaner alternatives over time.
Policy goals include:
- Environmental protection
- Energy efficiency
- Sustainable public transport planning
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Shift Toward Electric and Hybrid Vehicles
Under the new policy, government departments are allowed to purchase only electric or hybrid vehicles. Electric vehicles are ideal for urban use due to zero tailpipe emissions, while hybrid vehicles offer flexibility for longer or mixed-distance travel with reduced fuel consumption.
This shift will reduce maintenance expenses because electric and hybrid vehicles have fewer mechanical components, allowing the government to redirect savings toward public welfare and development projects over time.
Approved vehicle types:
- Electric vehicles for city use
- Hybrid vehicles for extended travel
- Cleaner alternatives replacing conventional engines
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Exemptions and Practical Considerations
The Punjab government has provided exemptions for field-duty and emergency vehicles to avoid service disruption. Departments such as health, rescue, and law enforcement often operate in areas where charging infrastructure is limited. These vehicles can continue using petrol or diesel for now.
Authorities will review exemptions as electric infrastructure expands across the province, and departments must justify operational needs before receiving approval, ensuring exemptions are granted only when necessary.
Exemption categories include:
- Field-duty vehicles
- Emergency response units
- Remote area operations
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EV Charging Requirement and Petrol Pump Approvals
To support electric mobility, Punjab has made EV charging units mandatory at all newly approved petrol pumps. No new pump will receive approval without installing a charging facility, ensuring infrastructure grows alongside EV adoption.
Petrol pump approvals are processed through the digital e-Biz Portal, improving transparency and enforcing environmental compliance. This approach integrates digital governance with green policy implementation.
| City | Approved Pumps |
|---|---|
| Faisalabad | 29 |
| Lahore | 14 |
| Bahawalpur | 10 |
| Other Cities | 116 |
Environmental and Economic Impact
The policy is expected to deliver long-term benefits, including reduced air pollution and lower fuel imports. Cleaner transport will improve public health outcomes, especially in densely populated urban areas.
Government departments will also benefit from lower operational and maintenance costs, making fleet management more efficient over time.
Expected benefits include:
- Cleaner air quality
- Reduced fuel expenditure
- Long-term cost savings
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FAQs
Why did Punjab ban petrol and diesel vehicle purchases for government departments?
The ban aims to reduce pollution, cut fuel costs, and promote sustainable transport solutions in the public sector.
Are all government vehicles affected by this policy?
No, field-duty and emergency vehicles are currently exempt due to operational requirements.
What vehicles can departments purchase now?
Government departments can purchase only electric or hybrid vehicles for official use.
Is EV charging mandatory at new petrol pumps?
Yes, all newly approved petrol pumps must install electric vehicle charging units.
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