Lahore: The Punjab Cabinet, led by Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif, has approved a sweeping set of public relief and development initiatives, including a historic reduction in electricity tariffs, the launch of Punjab’s first provincial airline, and the provision of 1,100 free electric taxis in Lahore.

In its 26th session held in Lahore, the cabinet finalized a 101-point agenda focused on public welfare, infrastructure development, environmental protection, and digital transformation. One of the most significant announcements was a 30% to 40% reduction in electricity tariffs for consumers linked to power companies under the Punjab government, such as Quaid-e-Azam Thermal Power and Punjab Thermal Power. With this, Punjab becomes the first province to voluntarily cut electricity rates, offering financial relief to thousands of households. CM Maryam Nawaz called the move a “bold step” and said it reflects the PML-N’s commitment to delivering on its promises.

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The cabinet also gave a green light to the creation of Air Punjab Private Limited, a government-backed airline that aims to improve domestic connectivity and offer affordable regional travel. CM Maryam has directed that Air Punjab commence operations by the end of 2025.

In a major push for clean and accessible transport, the provincial government approved the distribution of 1,100 free, interest-free electric taxis in Lahore. The initiative aims to reduce emissions and create job opportunities for unemployed youth. Alongside this, electric buses will be deployed in nine divisions of Punjab, supported by the development of EV charging infrastructure across major cities.

Other major decisions included a province-wide ban on vaping due to health concerns, a Rs40 billion allocation to upgrade all government schools, and the expansion of autism services under the Punjab Autism School and Resource Center Act 2025. The cabinet also approved land transfer for the construction of Pakistan’s first Nawaz Sharif Medical City in Lahore and directed the establishment of a new medical college in Layyah.

To support the agriculture sector, the cabinet approved a Rs5,000 per acre subsidy for over half a million wheat farmers under the Kisan Card program, which has already facilitated Rs18 billion in fertilizer purchases.

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Additionally, the cabinet passed measures to enhance labour welfare by approving ration cards for registered workers and miners, implementing safety protocols for sanitation workers, and prioritizing the provision of protective gear.

Environmental and tourism-related decisions were also taken, including eco-tourism projects in Changa Manga, Lal Sohanra, and National Park, along with plans to build new bus shelters and electric bus depots in Lahore.

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