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s Pakistan grapples with increasing challenges of air pollution, urban noise and rising street crime, an opportunity for change is emerging: replacing traditional motorcycles with electric scooters (e-scooters). This paradigm shift holds the promise of not only improving the environment but also enhancing public safety, reducing economic burden and positioning Pakistan as a regional leader in sustainable urban mobility.
Bike trouble
In cities like Karachi, Lahore, Rawalpindi, Peshawar and Islamabad, motorcycles have become synonymous with affordability and convenience for millions of low- and middle-income citizens. Their ability to maneuver through congested traffic and operate on relatively low fuel consumption makes them an attractive option. However, this apparent practicality highlights the significant challenges that motorcycles pose to the urban environment and public welfare.
Environmental effects
Traditional motorcycles, especially the two-stroke models common in Pakistan, are notorious for their environmental impact. These vehicles emit disproportionate levels of carbon monoxide, unburned hydrocarbons and particulates, which contribute significantly to urban air pollution. Smog, a recurring phenomenon in cities like Lahore, increases respiratory diseases, reduces visibility and incurs huge economic costs. According to some estimates, air pollution costs Pakistan about $1 billion annually in health-related costs and lost productivity. Motorcycles contribute an estimated $300 million to this burden. In addition to air pollution, motorcycles contribute to noise pollution, which affects mental health and reduces productivity in urban areas. The constant roar of engines increases the stress level, affecting the quality of life of the city dwellers.
Civilian security concerns
Motorcycles have also become a tool of urban insecurity. Their speed and agility make them ideal for facilitating street crimes such as burglaries, muggings and target killings. In Karachi alone, motorcycles were used in more than 60 percent of reported street crimes in 2023. Their involvement in high-speed gateways has created significant challenges for law enforcement agencies. Furthermore, motorcycles are disproportionately involved in road traffic accidents. In 2022, they were responsible for nearly half of all accidents in Pakistan, resulting in more than 6,000 deaths and tens of thousands of serious injuries. Reckless driving and lack of proper safety measures make motorcyclists a major public health problem.
Enter the electric scooter.
Electric scooters (e-scooters) offer a great solution to these challenges. These battery-powered vehicles produce zero tailpipe emissions, making them an eco-friendly alternative. Their adoption can significantly reduce air pollution in urban areas, contributing to cleaner and healthier cities. E-scooters operate almost silently, offering a much-needed respite from the relentless noise pollution caused by traditional motorcycles. This change could transform urban environments into calmer, more livable places, improving the mental health and productivity of millions of residents.
Better security
Switching to e-scooters involves significant upfront investment but promises substantial long-term savings. A financial analysis illustrates the economic viability of this change.
By adopting e-scooters, Pakistan can tackle two major challenges, environmental degradation and urban security, in one fell swoop. The benefits extend beyond cleaner air and quieter streets to include safer communities and a more sustainable economy.
Current costs of using the bike
1. Accidents: With 70,000 motorcycle-related accidents annually, associated costs include $300 million for loss of life, $100 million for disabling injuries, and $22 million for minor injuries and damages, totaling $422 million annually.
2. Street Crime: The role of motorcycles in street crimes accounts for approximately $40 million in economic losses, with an additional $20 million in law enforcement costs.
3. Environmental Costs: Motorcycles contribute to air pollution that results in $300 million annually in additional health care costs. Their carbon emissions (7.5 million tons per day) add another $375 million to the cost. Total annual spending: $1.57 billion
Costs of transitioning to e-scooters
1. Subsidies: Subsidizing 5 million e-scooters at $800 per unit would cost $4 billion.
2. Infrastructure: Developing 10,000 charging stations at $20,000 would require an additional $200 million.
3. Operational costs: Maintenance of charging stations and incentives for energy companies will cost $50 million annually.
4. Public Awareness Campaigns: A nationwide campaign will cost around $15 million over three years. However, this can be significantly reduced if social media platforms and mobile messaging are used.
5. Long-Term Savings: Over a decade, the transition to e-scooters will result in net savings of $10.57 billion, including reduced environmental costs, improved public safety, and reduced health care costs. This transition is not only environmentally beneficial but also economically smart.
Roadmap for change
To realize the full potential of e-scooters, a holistic and step-by-step approach is necessary. Policy makers should focus on creating an enabling environment for this change.
1. Subsidy and Incentives: The government should subsidize the production and purchase of e-scooters, so that they are affordable for the public. Tax breaks and low-interest financing options can encourage adoption. A public-private model can support initial investment by the government.
2. Development of Infrastructure: Installing a strong network of charging stations is very important. Private investors willing to participate in the development of this infrastructure should be given incentives.
3. Phased Transition: A gradual approach starting with banning two-stroke engines and encouraging the use of e-scooters will allow consumers and markets to adapt.
4. Public awareness campaigns: It is very important to educate the public about the benefits of e-scooters. Collaboration with media outlets and civil society organizations can enhance these efforts. The cost of public awareness campaigns can be reduced to a moderate extent by using social media and artificial intelligence.
5. Regulation: Strengthening road safety regulations and law enforcement measures will complement the inherent safety benefits of e-scooters.
A vision for the future
The transition from motorcycles to e-scooters is more than a technical upgrade, it’s a bold statement of intent. By adopting e-scooters, Pakistan can tackle two major challenges, environmental degradation and citizen security in one fell swoop. The benefits extend beyond cleaner air and quieter streets to include safer communities and a more sustainable economy. A well-thought-out healthy public policy provides enormous financial benefits, and promises a safe and healthy future for the people of Pakistan. This vision requires collaboration between government agencies, private sector stakeholders and civil society. It calls for commitment, innovation and a willingness to prioritize long-term gains over short-term challenges. However, the rewards – a healthier environment, improved public safety and significant savings – are undoubtedly worth the effort.
As Pakistan’s cities continue to grow, so too should it aspire to a better quality of life. Electric scooter adoption represents an opportunity to reimagine urban mobility and pave the way for a greater, safer future.
The author is Professor of Public Health at Health Services Academy, Islamabad. He has 24 years of experience in various fields of public health. Professor Khan has published widely, and has an H-index of 105.
