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CNG-based rickshaw launched in Punjab

Recorder Report

Lahore: Punjab Transport and Environment Minister Shafqat Mahmood on Saturday said that the government was planning to start micro credit scheme for rickshaw drivers to encourage the use of condensed natural gas (CNG).

Addressing the launching ceremony of the first CNG-based rickshaw, the minister said that the government, out of total $11 billion imports, was spending $6 billion on the oil import.

The oil price had been increased from $10 to $30 per barrel, therefore, there was a dire need to promote the use of CNG in transport vehicles, he added.

Shafqat alleged that the previous government had signed an agreement with the Daewoo Corporation, involving the National Bank of Pakistan forcibly. The Daewoo was demanding advance amount as per agreement, despite the fact the promissory note, in this regard would be applicable next year.

However, he said the government was trying to sort out this issue with the Daewoo Corporation.

The minister said that the government would not allow the transportation and sale of sub-standard gas cylinders in the Lahore.

The rickshaw manufacturing company director said that conversion of petrol rickshaw into CNG would cost Rs. 22,000 and claimed that it would save 50 percent of the fuel expenditures. He said rickshaw would produce very low amount of gas and termed the technology totally environmental-friendly.