LAHORE: Senior Provincial Minister Maryam Aurangzeb announced on Monday that motorcyclists who convert their petrol-powered bikes into electric vehicles (EVs) can receive a cash reward of Rs.100,000.
During a ceremony in Lahore, Aurangzeb explained that the Punjab government has initiated a forest conservation program inviting individuals and industries to adopt parks and forests to help reduce their carbon footprint. She also mentioned the launch of the green credit program by the environment department, which allows citizens to earn financial incentives, known as green credits by planting trees.
Citizens interested in availing of this initiative can visit the official portal at https://greencredit.punjab.gov.pk. Aurangzeb confirmed that, under the leadership of Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif, the government will provide Rs100,000 to motorcyclists who transform their traditional bikes into electric models via the Green Credit Program.
The minister further emphasized that the government is actively promoting energy-efficient LED lighting, which also qualifies for earning green credits. She added, “The ‘Plant for Pakistan’ campaign aligns with the Chief Minister’s vision to expand Punjab’s green cover through urban forestation efforts.”
Aurangzeb criticized previous administrations for their claims of massive tree plantation drives without proper accountability, stating, “We are not just making hollow promises like the so-called ‘Billion Tree Tsunami.’ Every tree planted is being tracked and mapped, and full Australian-style monitoring technology will be operational this year.”
She also announced plans to establish a tech-enabled fire management force in Punjab, supervised by the Bank of Punjab. The government has reclaimed encroached forest lands and remains committed to expanding and safeguarding forest areas.
Residents of Lahore can also receive a sapling delivered directly to their homes by calling 1399, as a gesture from Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz. Additionally, Aurangzeb revealed that 300,000 trees are slated to be planted along the Ring Road, and highlighted ongoing efforts to combat Lahore’s persistent smog problem. “Seven air quality monitoring stations have already been installed as part of the Punjab Air Quality System,” she added.
She urged citizens to actively participate in the greening initiatives: “Every Lahori has a responsibility to plant more trees. The more we increase our green cover, the better our air quality will become.”
