The Punjab government bans new petrol diesel vehicle purchases for departments, marking a major shift in how official transport will operate across the province. The decision applies to all provincial government departments and is aimed at reducing fuel dependence while accelerating the move toward cleaner mobility.
Under the new policy, departments will no longer be allowed to buy petrol or diesel vehicles for routine official use. Instead, procurement will be limited to electric and hybrid vehicles, aligning government transport with long-term environmental and cost-saving goals.
What the Ban Means for Government Departments
The restriction covers most administrative and operational vehicles purchased by provincial departments. However, the policy allows limited exceptions for field operations, where electric or hybrid options are not yet practical due to terrain, distance, or operational demands.
This ensures that essential services continue without disruption while still reducing overall fuel consumption in the public sector.
Why the Punjab Government Took This Step
Officials say the decision reflects a broader push to modernize government fleets and cut emissions. Transport is one of the largest contributors to urban pollution, and shifting government vehicles away from petrol and diesel is expected to set an example for the private sector.
The policy also supports long-term savings, as electric and hybrid vehicles typically offer lower running and maintenance costs compared to conventional fuel-powered cars.
Linked Changes for Petrol Pumps
Alongside the vehicle ban, authorities have also tightened rules for new fuel stations. Going forward, No Objection Certificates for petrol pumps will be linked to the installation of electric vehicle charging facilities. This move is intended to build basic EV infrastructure and encourage wider adoption of electric transport across Punjab.
Bigger Impact on Transport Policy
The ban signals a clear direction for future government procurement and urban mobility planning. By prioritizing electric and hybrid vehicles, the province aims to:
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Reduce carbon emissions
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Lower fuel import and operational costs
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Promote cleaner cities
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Prepare infrastructure for electric vehicles
The policy has been approved and implemented under the authority of the Punjab Government, with departments instructed to update procurement plans accordingly.
As electric mobility gains momentum, the Punjab government ban on new petrol diesel vehicle purchases for departments is expected to play a key role in reshaping how official transport functions in the years ahead.
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