LAHORE – July 28, 2025:
In a bid to tackle pollution and promote green living, Senior Provincial Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb has announced a significant cash reward of Rs 100,000 for individuals who convert their petrol-powered motorbikes into electric vehicles.
Speaking at a press conference in Lahore, Aurangzeb highlighted a series of eco-friendly initiatives under the provincial government’s broader vision to combat environmental degradation. “This is a golden opportunity for Pakistanis, especially the youth. If you switch your motorcycle from petrol to electric, you’ll be rewarded with Rs 100,000 in cash,” she said.
The announcement is part of a broader climate action campaign spearheaded by the Punjab government, under the guidance of Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz. The initiatives include the ‘Plant for Pakistan’ drive, which aims to significantly expand the province’s green cover through urban forests and community-led tree plantation efforts.
Aurangzeb revealed that Punjab’s first smog guns will be unveiled to the media tomorrow, signaling a major step toward improving air quality in Lahore and surrounding areas. In addition, individuals who opt to replace conventional lighting with energy-efficient LED bulbs will be eligible to receive carbon green credits, further incentivizing environmentally conscious behavior.
“The goal of our Plant 4 campaign is to plant 50 million trees. Unlike previous governments that raised slogans without follow-through, we are tracking every single tree through satellite mapping,” she added. Aurangzeb also mentioned the upcoming installation of Australian-style environmental technology to assist in monitoring and enforcement.
Addressing Lahore’s persistent smog problem, the minister said a technology-driven fire control force will soon be established in the province. The Bank of Punjab will oversee financial transparency and project implementation. “We’ve already cleared forest lands of encroachments and are committed not just to growing our forests, but protecting them as well.”
She further announced a citizen-friendly step: residents of Lahore can now call 1399 to have a sapling delivered directly to their home. “This plant is a gift from the Chief Minister to the people of Lahore. It’s time we all do our part,” Aurangzeb urged.
As part of the initiative, 300,000 saplings will be planted along Lahore’s Ring Road, and seven air quality monitors have been installed as part of the newly upgraded Punjab Air Quality System.
Concluding her remarks, the minister appealed to the public: “It’s not just the government’s responsibility. The people of Lahore must step up and plant as many trees as possible. The more trees we grow, the cleaner our air becomes.”
