Reduction in Electricity Tariff for EV Charging Stations to Promote Electric Vehicles

A crucial meeting on the electric vehicle (EV) policy was held under the chairmanship of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, where key decisions were made to promote the adoption of electric vehicles in Pakistan. During the meeting, officials from the Power Division and Federal Minister for Energy briefed the Prime Minister on strategies to enhance the EV infrastructure in the country.

Major Reduction in Electricity Rates for EV Charging Stations

Speaking at the meeting, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif emphasized the importance of encouraging electric vehicle usage to improve environmental sustainability. To achieve this goal, the electricity rate for EV charging stations will be reduced from Rs 70 per unit to Rs 40 per unit.

“Such incentives are being given worldwide to promote electric vehicles,” said the Prime Minister.

Power Division Minister Owais Leghari further elaborated that the new tariff of Rs 39.70 per unit for charging stations will be implemented after approval by NEPRA. Additionally, the procedure for setting up EV charging stations has been simplified, allowing businesses and entrepreneurs to obtain an NOC within just 15 days. This move is expected to create new business opportunities for the youth, enabling them to start their ventures with a small investment.

Government’s Crackdown on Human Trafficking

In a separate meeting chaired by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, discussions were held regarding the elimination of human trafficking. Officials reported that several human traffickers have been arrested between June 2023 and December 2024, with government facilitators facing disciplinary action. Several corrupt officials have been dismissed, while assets worth over Rs 500 million belonging to smugglers have been confiscated.

The Prime Minister directed authorities to take further action to eliminate human trafficking by strengthening law enforcement agencies. To this end, he ordered:

• Immediate recruitment to fill the manpower shortage in the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA).

• Strict legal action against individuals involved in human trafficking.

• The establishment of a standard screening system at airports for travelers going abroad.

• The launch of an awareness campaign on illegal foreign travel and human trafficking.

• Collaboration with Interpol for the extradition of most-wanted human traffickers.

These measures reflect Pakistan’s commitment to tackling human trafficking and ensuring that strict legal action is taken against perpetrators involved in this heinous crime.

The government’s initiatives on reducing EV charging costs and cracking down on human trafficking mark significant steps toward economic growth, environmental sustainability, and improved law enforcement. These policies aim to support the green energy transition while ensuring law and order in the country.