Smart mobility for a smarter Pakistan |
Pakistan stands at a critical crossroads where economic pressures, climate vulnerability, and rapid population growth demand innovative and sustainable solutions. In this context, electric vehicle (EV) technologies and the expanded use of artificial intelligence (AI) offer Pakistan a powerful opportunity to reshape its energy, transport, and governance landscape while accelerating inclusive economic growth.
The transport sector is one of Pakistan’s largest contributors to air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions. Major cities such as Lahore, Karachi, and Islamabad routinely experience hazardous smog, largely driven by fossil fuel–based vehicles. The adoption of EV technologies can significantly reduce carbon emissions, improve urban air quality, and lower public health costs. Electric bikes, rickshaws, buses, and cars are especially suitable for Pakistan’s urban commuting patterns, where short-distance travel dominates. With electricity cheaper and more stable than imported fuel in the long run, EVs also offer a path to reducing Pakistan’s heavy dependence on oil imports, easing pressure on foreign exchange reserves.
Beyond environmental benefits, EV technologies can stimulate local industry and employment. Local assembly of electric bikes, rickshaws, and buses has already begun in Pakistan, and with the right policy support, this sector can expand rapidly. Investment in battery manufacturing, charging infrastructure, and maintenance services can create new skilled jobs and encourage technology transfer. Importantly, EVs also align well with Pakistan’s growing renewable energy capacity, allowing solar and wind power to directly support clean mobility.
Alongside EVs, artificial intelligence is emerging as a transformative force across sectors. AI has the potential to dramatically improve efficiency, transparency, and service delivery in Pakistan. In governance, AI-driven data analytics........