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Marriyum Aurangzeb unveils incentives for carbon reduction, tree planting, and LED transition
LAHORE: In a major push toward environmental sustainability, Senior Provincial Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb announced on Monday that the Punjab government will offer a cash reward of Rs100,000 to individuals who convert their petrol motorcycles into electric vehicles (EVs). The initiative falls under the Green Credit Program, which seeks to incentivize citizens to actively reduce their carbon footprint.
The program is part of a broader green agenda being led by Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif, focused on combating climate change, reducing smog, and restoring green spaces in the province.
Multiple Ways to Earn Green Credits
Aurangzeb stated that the Green Credit Program is designed to encourage the public to engage in eco-friendly practices. Citizens can accumulate “green credits” through various actions including:
- Converting petrol bikes into electric bikes
- Planting trees under government-approved initiatives
- Switching to LED lighting in homes and businesses
“These green credits are not just symbolic; they come with real financial value,” said the minister. “Each credit represents a measurable contribution to our environment, and we are ready to reward that.”
Free Saplings, Urban Forests and Smart Tree Monitoring
Highlighting the provincial commitment to tree plantation, Aurangzeb announced an aggressive expansion of Punjab’s green cover through the “Plant for Pakistan” campaign.
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Key initiatives include:
- Free saplings for Lahore residents, delivered directly to their homes via a call to helpline 1399.
- Plantation of 300,000 trees along the Lahore Ring Road, turning it into a green corridor.
- Introduction of Australian-style monitoring technology, which will map, track, and evaluate tree growth and health.
- Reclamation of encroached forest land, which will be restored and monitored through technology-based solutions.
A dedicated fire control force, managed in collaboration with the Bank of Punjab, will also be deployed to protect forested areas and mitigate wildfire risks.
Air Quality a Central Concern
Addressing the growing concerns over Lahore’s deteriorating air quality, Aurangzeb emphasized that pollution control is one of the Punjab government’s top priorities.
She noted that:
- Seven air quality monitoring stations have already been installed across the city.
- The province is committed to expanding the Punjab Air Quality System, which will provide real-time data and transparency.
- Special focus is being placed on smog control, particularly during the winter months when the problem peaks.
“It is the responsibility of every Lahori to plant more trees,” she urged. “The more we plant, the better our air quality index will become.”
A People-Powered Climate Strategy
Aurangzeb called on the public to become active participants in the province’s green transformation. She said the government’s strategy depends not just on policies, but on civic engagement.
“Whether it’s switching to an electric bike, planting a tree, or just replacing a bulb with an LED — every action counts. We want to reward citizens for being partners in this movement,” she said.
Conclusion
With financial incentives, smart technologies, and large-scale greening efforts, Punjab’s Green Credit Program aims to place the fight against climate change in the hands of the people. The Rs100,000 reward for EV conversion is a landmark move that could set the tone for similar efforts across Pakistan.
As CM Maryam Nawaz’s administration rolls out this climate-focused roadmap, Lahore and the wider province may see meaningful change — if public participation matches political will.
