The Punjab government has expanded its bike distribution scheme for students, increasing the allocation from 20,000 to 27,200 under the Chief Minister Youth Initiative.
This move is aimed at improving mobility for students while offering financial relief through subsidised and interest-free schemes.
Free bikes for orphans, electric bikes for female students
Under the directives of Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz, the bike scheme now includes free bikes for orphan students and electric bikes for all female applicants. The programme was initially launched on April 12 with an approved allocation of 20,000 bikes, but due to growing demand and challenges such as low mileage and battery theft, the scope has been broadened to include petrol-powered bikes as well.
Read More: COAS Gen Asim Munir visits IDEAS 2024 in Karachi
So far, over 7,500 bikes have been distributed, including 5,000 petrol-powered and 2,000 electric bikes. The Transport Department confirmed plans to distribute an additional 6,500 electric bikes in the coming days. To ensure equitable access, the Bank of Punjab has approved loans for 20,000 students, making it easier for them to acquire motorcycles through monthly installment plans.
Financial relief
To ease the financial burden, the government has introduced a reduced down payment of Rs25,000, with monthly installments set at less than Rs5,000. Male students can avail of the installment plan at Rs11,676 per month, while female students benefit from a lower rate of Rs7,325.
A separate scheme will reward high-achieving students with free bikes, promoting academic excellence.
