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Express Tribune
14 hours ago
- Automotive
- Express Tribune
Govt launches National Electric Vehicle Policy
Listen to article Special Assistant to the Prime Minister on Industries and Production Haroon Akhtar Khan on Thursday officially launched the National Electric Vehicle (NEV) Policy 2025-30 and called it a historic and transformative step in Pakistan's journey towards industrial, environmental and energy reforms. Speaking at a press conference, Haroon Akhtar Khan stated that the new EV policy was aligned with the prime minister's vision of promoting clean, sustainable and affordable transportation while encouraging the local industry and protecting environment. Transport sector is a major contributor to carbon emissions and "reform in this area is imperative". The PM aide said that one of the major targets under the policy was to ensure that 30% of all new vehicles sold in Pakistan by 2030 were electric. This transition is projected to save 2.07 billion litres of fuel annually, amounting to nearly $1 billion in foreign exchange savings. Additionally, the policy is expected to reduce carbon emissions by 4.5 million tons and cut health-related costs by $405 million per year. He announced that an initial subsidy of Rs9 billion had been allocated for fiscal year 2025-26, under which 116,053 electric bikes and 3,171 electric rickshaws would be facilitated. Some 25% of this subsidy is reserved for women to provide them with safe, affordable and eco-friendly mobility. He said that a fully digital platform had been introduced to ensure transparent online application submission, verification and disbursement of subsidies. Furthermore, the policy outlines the installation of 40 new EV charging stations on motorways, with an average distance of 105 kilometres.
Express Tribune
15 hours ago
- Health
- Express Tribune
Punjab takes over long-stalled hospital project
Following years of federal inaction, the Punjab government is set to revive the long-abandoned Rawalpindi Mother and Child Hospital project under its Annual Development Programme (ADP). The revised plan envisions the completion of the facility as a state-of-the-art Children's Hospital, with the project's cost now escalated to Rs9 billion. PHOTO: EXPRESS The long-delayed Rawalpindi Mother and Child Hospital project — under construction for the past 22 years and with its cost rising from Rs1.5 billion to Rs9b billion — has now been transferred from the federal to the Punjab government, which will construct a Children's Hospital instead. The status of the project has been revised, and it has been decided to complete the unfinished building and establish a Children's Hospital instead. The Punjab government has issued a notification to include the project in its Annual Development Programme (ADP) and to prepare a new PC-1 for its execution. The foundation stone of the hospital was laid by two former Prime Ministers, Shaukat Aziz and Imran Khan. In addition, the former Chief Justice of the Supreme Court, Justice Saqib Nisar visited the site just 23 days before the 2018 general elections and announced that the project would be completed under the supervision of a special cell of the Supreme Court. According to the notification issued on June 16 by the Secretary, Specialised Healthcare and Medical Education Department, Punjab, Dr Hina Sattar, Head of Paediatrics at Rawalpindi Medical University, has been appointed as Project Director for the establishment of the Children's Hospital under the ADP. She will coordinate with Assistant Professor Dr Masood Sadiq, the Vice Chancellor of the University of Child Health Sciences, Lahore, to prepare a revised PC-1 for the project. It is worth noting that former federal Interior Minister Sheikh Rashid Ahmed had facilitated the foundation-laying of a 200-bed Mother and Child Hospital by then Prime Minister Shaukat Aziz during the federal government formed after the 2002 elections. At the time, the total estimated cost of the project was Rs1.5b. However, the project remained incomplete during the five-year tenure of that government. While the main structure was constructed, critical work, including finishing, renovation, machinery installation, and recruitment of human resources, was never completed. From 2008 to 2017, the project remained abandoned. Then, on July 1, 2018 — just 23 days before the general elections — then Chief Justice Saqib Nisar, along with Sheikh Rashid Ahmed, visited the site and announced that the SC's special cell would now oversee the project's completion. Later, after the PTI came to power following the 2018 elections, then Prime Minister Imran Khan visited the site once again and reiterated the promise to complete the hospital. Despite significant progress during PTI's three-and-a-half-year tenure, the project still could not be completed. The construction eventually halted, and the partially built structure began to deteriorate due to weather and neglect. Now, the project — previously under federal jurisdiction — has officially been handed over to the Punjab government, which will provide the funding and complete the project as a Children's Hospital under a new PC-1.
Business Recorder
20 hours ago
- Automotive
- Business Recorder
Pakistan launches National Electric Vehicle Policy 2025-30
Pakistan government on Thursday officially launched the National Electric Vehicle (NEV) Policy 2025-30. Speaking at the launch, Special Assistant to the Prime Minister on Industries and Production Haroon Akhtar Khan called the policy a 'historic and transformative step' in Pakistan's journey towards industrial, environmental, and energy reforms, according to a statement from the Ministry of Industries and Production. Haroon Akhtar Khan stated that the new EV policy was aligned with the prime minister's vision of promoting clean, sustainable, and affordable transportation while encouraging local industry and protecting the environment. He emphasised that the transport sector was a major contributor to carbon emissions in Pakistan, and reforms in that area were imperative. National Electric Vehicle policy expected in one month Akhtar said one of the major targets under the policy was to ensure that 30% of all new vehicles sold in Pakistan by 2030 would be electric. The transition is projected to save 2.07 billion litres of fuel annually, amounting to nearly $1 billion in foreign exchange savings. Additionally, the policy is expected to reduce carbon emissions by 4.5 million tons and cut healthcare-related costs by $405 million per year. Akhtar announced that an initial subsidy of Rs9 billion was allocated for the fiscal year 2025-26, under which 116,053 electric bikes and 3,171 electric rickshaws would be facilitated. 'Importantly, 25% of the subsidy is reserved for women to provide them with safe, affordable, and eco-friendly mobility.' He said a fully digital platform was introduced to ensure transparent online application, verification, and disbursement of subsidies. Furthermore, the policy outlines the installation of 40 new EV charging stations on motorways, with an average distance of 105 kilometres between them. Electric Vehicle policy to be announced by end of November: Tanveer The policy also includes the introduction of battery swapping systems, vehicle-to-grid (V2G) schemes, and mandatory integration of EV charging points in new building codes to facilitate wider adoption in urban areas. To encourage local manufacturing, incentives are being provided to domestic producers. Currently, over 90% of parts for two- and three-wheelers are already manufactured locally, according to the ministry. As per the details, the government will also introduce special support packages for small and medium enterprises (SMEs) to further boost localisation. The Automotive Industry Development and Export Plan (AIDEP) tariff facility would continue until 2026 and be phased out gradually by 2030, the official announced. The Special Assistant noted that the NEV policy was developed through consultations with over 60 experts, institutions, and industry stakeholders, guided by a steering committee under the Ministry of Industries and Production since September 2024. The steering committee would hold monthly and quarterly review meetings, while the Auditor General of Pakistan would conduct a performance audit every six months, Akhtar said. He stressed that the NEV policy was not only an environmental revolution but also a foundation for industrial growth, local employment, energy efficiency, and technological self-reliance in Pakistan. He expressed hope that federal and provincial governments, the private sector, and citizens would work together to realise 'this vision of a clean, modern, and sustainable transport system'. Akhtar stated that the policy was a decisive move toward clean energy, sustainable transportation, and industrial development. ' 'It presents a comprehensive and results-driven strategy that aims to lead Pakistan toward a cleaner and more resilient future.' He also highlighted that locally produced goods were 30-40% cheaper than imported alternatives. In the two-wheeler segment alone, more than 90% of parts are now produced locally, according to Akhtar. 'Given Pakistan's vulnerability to climate change, the EV policy will significantly contribute to achieving global carbon reduction targets.' The policy is expected to yield savings of approximately Rs800 billion over the next 24-25 years through reduced fuel imports, the use of cheap electricity, and revenue from carbon credits. 'Charging vehicles with electricity will also reduce capacity payments from Rs174 billion to Rs105 billion, and carbon credits could generate around Rs15 billion in revenue.' The country's total energy demand for EVs over the next five years is projected at 126 terawatt-hours, which could be met using the existing surplus in the national grid, he said. An electric rickshaw or bike user is expected to recover their initial investment within 1 year and 10 months due to the low cost of charging compared to petrol. For instance, if the additional cost of an electric bike is Rs150,000, 'this can be recouped within less than two years through fuel savings'. Akhtar concluded by saying that the government had also provided exemptions on customs duties and sales tax on EV parts to support the local industry. 'This policy should be embraced wholeheartedly by Pakistan, as it is a game-changer for our economy, environment, and industrial landscape.'
Business Recorder
12-06-2025
- Business
- Business Recorder
Pakistan govt's budget steps may hinder cashless economy drive: TOAP
ISLAMABAD: As the government unveils a raft of new taxes on digital transactions and e-commerce in the federal budget, Aamir Ibrahim, chairman Telecom Operators Association of Pakistan voiced both hope and concern, warning that the measures could slow Pakistan's journey toward a cashless economy. Industry leaders, trade bodies, and associations also expressed concerns that the budget missed an important opportunity to mandate digital payment options across retail. They pointed out that many major retailers still refuse to accept digital payments in order to hide real income and evade taxes, indicating that enforcement against such practices remains insufficient. This gap, they argued, allows tax evasion to persist and undermines efforts to bring more transactions into the formal, documented economy. The Overseas Investors Chamber of Commerce and Industry (OICCI) also criticised the government for missing a crucial opportunity to broaden the tax base and document the country's vast Rs9 trillion cash-based informal economy. In a statement, the OICCI noted that while measures like the nationwide rollout of e-invoicing and expansion of POS systems are positive steps; the absence of a concrete strategy to address the informal sector and rationalise tax structures undermines efforts to create a more investment-friendly environment and advance economic formalisation. 'The budget aims to formalise online trade through digital integration and tax measures, which is a plus,' said Aamir. 'However, complexity in tax collection, the 5% levy on digital transactions with foreign vendors, and additional taxes charged by payment intermediaries risk increasing costs and discouraging digital adoption. Making digital payments more prevalent, easier, and affordable is essential for Pakistan's growth and for documenting the economy. Let's ensure policies support a truly digital Pakistan, driving transparency and compliance without undue burdens.' The new Finance Bill introduces taxes on both local and foreign e-commerce marketplaces, making online shopping costlier for Pakistani consumers. Notably, a five per cent tax will be imposed on goods purchased from foreign online marketplaces such as AliExpress and Amazon, collected by banks and payment gateways at the point of transaction. Meanwhile, local digital payments will face a tiered tax structure, ranging from one per cent to two per cent depending on the transaction amount, and courier companies will collect taxes on cash-on-delivery payments. Banks and courier services have been designated as withholding agents, required to collect and remit these taxes, and file detailed statements on all digital transactions. Online marketplaces must also ensure that all vendors are registered for sales tax, tightening compliance across the sector. Aamir acknowledged the government's intent to bring more online activity into the formal economy but cautioned that the added complexity and cost could push some businesses and consumers back toward cash and informal channels. 'We need to strike a balance between expanding the tax net and fostering digital inclusion. If digital transactions become more expensive or cumbersome, we risk undermining the very progress we've made in financial inclusion and digital transformation.' He urged policymakers to revisit the proposed levies and streamline tax collection, so that Pakistan's vision of a cashless, digitally empowered society remains within reach. 'There is still time to fix anomalies in the new budget. Let's make sure that our policies truly support a digital Pakistan, rather than create new barriers to adoption.' Copyright Business Recorder, 2025
Express Tribune
12-06-2025
- Health
- Express Tribune
SESSI made 'doubtful' medicine purchases
The Sindh Assembly's Public Accounts Committee (PAC) has ordered a full audit into the procurement of medicines worth Rs9 billion annually by the Sindh Employees Social Security Institution (SESSI), amid complaints of large-scale irregularities, substandard supplies, and misappropriation of public funds. The decision came during a PAC meeting held on Wednesday under the chairmanship of Nisar Khuhro. The committee reviewed SESSI's audit reports for the fiscal years 2018 and 2019. Senior officials, including Secretary Labour Rafiq Qureshi and SESSI Commissioner Miandad Rahujo, were in attendance. During the session, Khuhro expressed concern over the massive annual expenditure on medicines despite persistent complaints from workers and health staff about the supply of low-quality drugs and outdated machinery at SESSI hospitals. SESSI Commissioner Rahujo informed the committee that the institution operates seven major hospitals and 42 dispensaries across the province, including Walika Hospital, Landhi Hospital, and the Kidney Centre. These facilities serve industrial labourers and SESSI-registered employees. He stated that out of SESSI's Rs13billion annual budget, 70% — around Rs9billion — is spent on medicine procurement and healthcare services. The remaining Rs4billion is allocated to field directors. However, the PAC was told that only 70% of the medicine procurement follows formal tendering procedures, while the remaining 30% is purchased locally by directors, where most complaints and irregularities reportedly originate. Khuhro directed that a comprehensive audit be conducted to examine the entire procurement process, particularly the Rs9billion spent annually on medicines. He stressed the need for transparency and accountability in the use of public funds. The commissioner added that Hospital Management Committees had been formed to oversee hospital operations, and the SESSI Governing Body had recently approved a Rs1.4billion project to upgrade and reconstruct Walika Hospital. Construction is expected to commence within a year. Separately, the PAC raised serious concerns about violations of minimum wage laws across the province. The PAC chairman cited disturbing figures that nearly 80% of private industrial units are not paying the government-mandated minimum monthly wage of Rs37,000 to workers. When asked about compliance, Commissioner Rahujo revealed that out of 67,000 industrial units in Sindh, only 24,000 are registered with SESSI. Of these, 6,000 are non-operational and 18,000 are functional, collectively employing about 800,000 registered workers. He admitted that many units, including private security firms, fail to pay the full minimum wage. Calling it a "blatant violation of labour laws," Khuhro directed the Labour Department and SESSI to take immediate steps to ensure all workers receive the legal minimum wage, and to launch strict enforcement actions against defaulting units. The committee also turned its attention to internal issues within SESSI, particularly staffing and fraudulent appointments. Khuhro questioned the number of employees, the legitimacy of their hiring, and the attendance system in place. Commissioner Rahujo reported that SESSI currently employs 4,200 staff and has implemented a digital attendance system. He confirmed that several people hired on the basis of fake degrees had been dismissed after verification. In another damning disclosure, it was revealed that Rs50million had been siphoned off through fraudulent billing under the guise of repair works at SESSI facilities. The PAC ordered the Labour Secretary to conduct a detailed inquiry into the matter and submit a comprehensive report on the financial irregularities. Khuhro stressed that institutional reforms and strict oversight are essential to protect workers' rights and public resources. He reaffirmed that it is SESSI's core responsibility to serve the working class with transparency, efficiency, and integrity.
